UNDERSTANDING THE PHYSIOLOGY OF FAT

In earlier years, fat was not considered a significant issue within the human body until science and nutritionists raised awareness.

At the same time, “cholesterol” became a buzzword, recognized as a waxy substance found throughout the body. It posed little concern unless it accumulated excessively.

Over time, attention shifted to building healthy cells while avoiding fatty deposits in the blood. Body fat, also known as ‘adipose tissue,’ is important for energy storage, insulation against heat and cold, and regulating hunger levels.

Historically, early humans were highly active, with little evidence of obesity. This changed with the advent of agriculture and the shift to more sedentary lifestyles in settled communities.

By the 19th century, the negative health effects of obesity became more evident. Externally, fat is most noticeable on the thighs and buttocks, but it becomes dangerous when it accumulates around internal organs, known as visceral fat.

According to statistics, South Africans were among the first Sub-Saharan populations to adopt fast food, characterized by large portions and a sedentary lifestyle influenced by the rise of television. Roadside vendors also contributed by offering high-carb, fatty foods and ultra-sweet drinks. Fortunately, some people began to realize that home-cooked meals offered many benefits in comparison.

In South Africa, obesity rates are higher among Black women than men, partly because men have greater bone mineral density and more protein in their bodies.

However, the highest global obesity rates are found in the Nauru Pacific Islands, where imported processed foods high in sugar and fat are major contributors. Despite this, many people there perceive obesity as a sign of wealth.

In Great Britain during the 1980s, many men were involved in physical labor, but this changed with increased mechanization. As machinery replaced manual work, lifestyles became more sedentary. A city councilor once remarked, “There are going to be more people sitting on their backsides than ever before!”

With fast food being such a common habit these days, it’s worth looking at some countries where people are more conscious about their diets.

For example, China is known for having a relatively slim population. Eating at one’s desk or on public transport is considered bad manners, and much of their food is boiled or steamed, such as broccoli. Tofu, kimchi, and miso add beneficial microbes to the gut. The Chinese diet is rich in fruits and vegetables and low in sugary snacks, with one cultural treat being rice balls wrapped in seaweed.

Switching gears, do animals overindulge? Obesity can occur in rabbits and is common in pigs, as well as in house pets that receive excessive treats, leading to skeletal and heart disease.

In conclusion, when it comes to humans, dieting can be a slow and challenging process for losing fat. However, new “tech” methods are emerging.

The FDA has approved a safe, non-surgical capsule that reduces the volume of fat cells through radio frequency, without direct contact with the patient. Another method, known as cool sculpting, freezes fat cells, causing them to die off. Additionally, red light therapy can reduce fat volume using radio frequency, also without direct contact with the client.

For those interested, many of these methods can be found with a quick online search.