Researchers have found that the size of fat cells can have a significant impact on body weight, body-mass index (BMI), and total body fat. According to a study presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Venice, Italy, individuals with larger fat cells tend to lose weight over time, while those with smaller fat cells are more likely to gain weight. This research, which has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal, could potentially revolutionize the understanding of weight management.
The study involved measuring cell volume and the number of fat cells in abdominal fat samples from 260 participants over a 15-year period. The researchers found that individuals with many large fat cells experienced decreases in body weight, BMI, and total body fat, while those with fewer but small fat cells saw increases in these measurements. The correlation between fat cell volume and changes in body weight remained significant even after adjusting for factors such as age, physical activity, follow-up duration, and gender.
Small fat cells were found to increase the risk of weight gain, but may also offer some metabolic advantages. It is believed that individuals with small fat cells have a better metabolic profile, which may mitigate the risks associated with conditions like type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. Studies have shown that exercise and movement can shrink fat cells and improve their health, without necessarily leading to weight loss.
Medical experts consider smaller fat cells to be healthier, as they are associated with a better metabolic profile. The findings from the study suggest that measuring fat cell volume early in life could help identify individuals at risk of weight gain later in life, thereby offering potential for early intervention in weight management. Despite these promising findings, experts still emphasize the importance of finding a suitable diet and reducing overall caloric intake for successful weight loss.
Dr. Mir Ali, a bariatric surgeon, notes that while genetics play a role in weight management, most individuals can achieve weight loss by cutting back on calories. Fat cells can shrink after weight loss, but may enlarge again when weight is regained. Understanding the size of fat cells in individuals could provide valuable information for personalized weight management programs, offering support to those with smaller fat cells who may find it more challenging to lose weight. Researchers are currently working on developing methods to easily measure fat cell size for clinical use.
