Colors and Uses of Fat
By Tom Herrin
We probably think we know all there is to know about fat. After all, we have seen plenty of individuals who carry too much of it. When we look in the mirror, chances are that we either think we see way too much or way too little. We may not have realized that fat is present in several colors. We may not be aware that it has some good purposes as well as bad. We may or may not understand the connection between fat and general health. Fat is much more diverse than we may have thought.
What Color Is Your Fat?
First of all, some may say they don't have any fat, but we all have some. Fat occurs in several colors. Brown fat is a kind that some may not have much of once they have become adults. It is the kind of fat that can keep us warm. It makes sense that babies have quite a bit of it. Beige fat is one that may help us to burn fat. It may be easier to burn than some other fat. When we exercise or are under stress, other fat may be converted to beige fat. White fat is the classic kind of fat we are most familiar with. It is the kind that can cause us issues.
Belly Fat
The really bad kind of fat is belly fat. It is generally a white fat. As such, it poses some big health risks. It has been known to contribute to strokes, heart disease, and arterial disease. It is also associated with some cancers. It may be the one that is worth looking in the mirror for. If we begin to see much of this kind of fat, we need to take it seriously. It may be time for a good diet and an exercise program.
We Now Measure Fat
With current technology available, we are able to do a pretty good job of measuring fat on our bodies. Even using one of the simple BMI scales we can find, they can provide us enough of an idea to be able to identify where we are on a scale that looks at a ratio of our body fat as compared to other things in our bodies, such as muscle and bone. Most of these simple scales use age, height, weight, and frame size as a basis and derive a number score from there. They are actually a pretty good guide.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Vacaville, Calif.