Researchers analyzed data from 85,761 individuals over five years. During this time, more than 7,500 participants passed away.
“Fat but Fit”
The results revealed that individuals with a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 35 (i.e., those who are overweight and on the verge of ) did not have a higher risk of death compared to those in the “healthy” upper BMI range (22.5–25).
Experts refer to this phenomenon as “metabolically healthy” or the “fat but fit” phenomenon, as reported by Daily Mail.
Why Being Underweight Can Be Harmful
On the other hand, participants with a BMI of 18.5 or lower had a death risk that was 2.7 times higher than average. Even those at the lower end of the normal range (BMI 18.5–20) showed a doubled risk.
Dr. Sigrid Bjerge Gribsholt explained that this may partly be due to some individuals losing due to underlying illnesses. At the same time, it’s possible that a higher BMI in older adults can sometimes have a protective effect.
The Risks of Obesity Remain
Meanwhile, scientists emphasized that class 2 obesity (BMI 35–40) increases the risk of death by 23%.
Particularly dangerous is what is known as — the fat that accumulates around the liver and intestines. It can make a person appear slim on the outside while simultaneously “aging” the heart and blood vessels.
“Pear” or “Apple”?
The study results, published in the European Heart Journal, also suggest that body shape may be more important for heart health than weight itself.
Men with an “apple-shaped” figure, where accumulates in the abdominal area, were significantly more prone to accelerated heart aging.
In contrast, women with a “pear-shaped” figure, genetically predisposed to accumulate fat in the hips and thighs (known as gluteofemoral fat), had healthier and younger hearts.
Photo: Unsplash
