Visceral adipose tissue (VAT)
MetabolismFat stored around internal organs within the abdominal cavity.
VAT is metabolically active and produces inflammatory cytokines and hormones that affect insulin sensitivity and metabolism. Excessive VAT is strongly linked to metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
Why this matters
VAT is metabolically active "toxic" fat, releasing inflammatory cytokines and hormones directly into organs. High VAT causes no specific symptoms while dramatically increasing disease risk. It drives insulin resistance (requiring more insulin for blood sugar control), promotes inflammation, raises blood pressure, and causes fatty liver disease. Long-term consequences include type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.
VAT responds preferentially to exercise. You can reduce dangerous organ fat before seeing weight or waist changes.
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