What type of fat is most associated with health risks?

Visceral fat is particularly associated with health risks due to its location within the abdominal cavity, surrounding vital organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines. Unlike subcutaneous fat, which is located under the skin and is often less harmful, visceral fat has been linked to various metabolic disorders. This type of fat releases fatty acids and various inflammatory markers into the bloodstream, which can lead to insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other conditions related to metabolic syndrome.

The harmful effects of visceral fat stem from the way it affects hormonal balance and inflammation in the body. Individuals with higher levels of visceral fat are generally at a greater risk for health issues compared to those with higher amounts of subcutaneous or other types of fat.