Which statement best describes the health impact of visceral fat compared with subcutaneous fat?

Which statement best describes the health impact of visceral fat compared with subcutaneous fat?

• A. Visceral fat is less harmful than subcutaneous fat
• B. Visceral fat is generally considered more harmful than subcutaneous fat
• C. Visceral fat has no impact on health
• D. Visceral fat cannot be measured

Answer: (B)

Where fat sits in the body matters for health. Visceral fat surrounds internal organs in the abdominal cavity and is more metabolically active than fat stored just under the skin. This activity means it releases inflammatory substances and fatty acids into the liver through the portal circulation, promoting insulin resistance, abnormal blood lipids, and higher blood pressure. Because of these effects, visceral fat is generally considered more harmful than subcutaneous fat, especially at similar levels of overall body fat. It does influence health and isn’t inert, and it can be estimated by waist measurements or directly measured with imaging; saying it cannot be measured isn’t accurate. Subcutaneous fat, while not without risk, is typically less strongly linked to metabolic diseases.

Where fat sits in the body matters for health. Visceral fat surrounds internal organs in the abdominal cavity and is more metabolically active than fat stored just under the skin. This activity means it releases inflammatory substances and fatty acids into the liver through the portal circulation, promoting insulin resistance, abnormal blood lipids, and higher blood pressure. Because of these effects, visceral fat is generally considered more harmful than subcutaneous fat, especially at similar levels of overall body fat. It does influence health and isn’t inert, and it can be estimated by waist measurements or directly measured with imaging; saying it cannot be measured isn’t accurate. Subcutaneous fat, while not without risk, is typically less strongly linked to metabolic diseases.