Meet the Experts

Why Does Knowing Different Types of Fat Matter?

Fat lossis definitely not easy and involves a lot of moving parts.

Fluffy Fat

“Fluffy fat is soft and jiggles easily.

The backs of four models of all different shapes, sizes, and heights with the arms around each other

Stocksy

This fat is necessary to have, but too much of it can bring health complications.

What Is Subcutaneous Fat?

Subcutaneous fat is the fat just beneath your skin.

types of body fat illustration

illustration by Dion Mills

Its purpose is to protect your muscles and bones, as well as insulate your body and store energy.

Subcutaneous fat can be fibrous or more soft to the touch.

Typically, results are noticeable after about six weeks, with end results arriving after 12 weeks.

Alpert adds that diet is key too.

Specifically, liquid sugar in the form of soda, juice, andalcohol.”

“When it comes to exercise, remember that subcutaneous fat covers the muscle,” adds Parris.

“As an example, abs are muscle.

In short, a combination ofaerobic and strength trainingis best.”

Fibrous Fat

Fibrous fat is the tougher version of subcutaneous fat and often forms set-in rolls.

You may wind up being more satisfied with laser liposuction than with other traditional methods.

Remember that making healthy changes to diet and lifestyle needs to be a priority too.

Otherwise, the fat may simply come back.

“CoolSculptingworks best for this pop in of fat,” says Dr. Chasin.

“This, sadly, is also the key in of fat that will often need additional help.”

To get the ball rolling, focus on amping up your current workout routine.

Don’t give up if you aren’t seeing results.

It also has minimal side effects and high satisfaction rates.

you could achieve a reduction in cellulite using a combination of noninvasive procedures as well.

Dr. Chasin’s favorite is SculpSure andExilis.

“Exilis is aradiofrequency treatmentthat tightens and tones skin for a smoother appearance.”

These radiofrequency options can help boost your skin’s collagen content, which is known to decrease with age.

Plus, it’s beneficial for keeping skin firm and supple.

“Cellulite is a tough one,” says Alpert.

“Sometimes losing weight can be beneficial, but other times it can almost make it appear worse.”

Alpert recommends starting with some diet changes.

“I also recommend a diet high in vitamin C to promote the production of collagen.

(I love Reserveage Collagen Replenish.)

Muscle-building workouts with moderate weights are great too.”

What Is Visceral Fat?

It can also be found in the spaces surrounding the vital organs, such as the liver and intestines.

If you’re looking for targeted workouts and lifestyle changes… A 2019 study linked short sleep duration and insomnia with increased visceral-fat obesity.

A 2020 study examined the effectiveness of exercise in reducing accumulated fat.

Stick With It

Don’t give up once you start!

“So sticking with a program can pay off quickly.”

It can be tough to start and continue aweight lossjourney alone.

So consider looping in a support system.

Research shows that social support is beneficial to keeping up the hard work.

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