Role of Body Fat Distribution and the Metabolic Complications of Obesity

CONTEXT: An upper body/visceral fat distribution in obesity is closely linked with metabolic complications, whereas increased lower body fat is independently predictive of reduced cardiovascular risk. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: The measured functions of different fat depots with regards to fatty acid storage and release in health and obesity were reviewed. The adverse effects of experimentally increasing free fatty acid (FFA) concentrations on liver, muscle, pancreatic beta-cell, and endothelial function were noted. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: The most dramatic abnormality in FFA metabolism is failure to suppress FFA concentrations/adipose tissue lipolysis normally in response to postprandial hyperinsulinemia. Upper body…

• AD
  American Diabetes Association
• NI
  National Institutes of Health

  Awards: DK45343, DK40484