Android and Gynoid Fat

2011-04-01 updated 2011-09-13 • SEND FEEDBACK •
Related: body fat, health, metabolism, training

Legal disclaimer: Since we are not doctors, never follow anything based on health-related topics on this or related sites without first consulting with your doctor or other trusted health professional.

The type of body has has health implications.

Android “visceral“ fat = abdomen and trunk, this is the bad stuff

Gynoid fat = hips, thighs, buttocks

Android (visceral) fat is believed to be associated with heart disease.

Android (visceral) fat is believed to be exert negative hormonal effects: fat itself is an organ.

Android fat is of concern for coronary heart disease and metabolic syndrome, and can thus be thought of as an indicator of overall health. A mirror also works—high android fat can manifest as a pot belly for both men and women, or even fat on the back.

When lean and in peak condition, my android fat is about 55% of gynoid fat— low and healthy. When out of shape and overweight, the android fat actually exceeds the gynoid fat, a possible precursor to disease if it continues to increase or stay that way over time— a pot-gut.

Some endocrinologists believe that this visceral (android) fat is very dangerous and has strong hormonal like effects also. I subscribe to that view based on my own sense of well being, coupled with the studies I’ve come across over the years.

Consult your physician on these matters, but android fat is never good.

Example

My DEXA results show a huge drop in android fat from excercise, down to an almost-nothing 366 grams, or about 0.8 pounds.

Types of fat android (visceral) and gynoid

Types of fat android (visceral) and gynoid