Researchers have found that large fat cells may help with decreases in body weight, body-mass index (BMI), and total body fat, while certain types of small fat cells can cause increases in these measurements. A study presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Venice, Italy, revealed that individuals with larger fat cells tend to lose weight over time, while those with smaller fat cells are more likely to gain weight. The study involved measurement of cell volume and fat cell number in abdominal fat samples from 260 participants over 15 years. Findings indicated that individuals with many large fat cells had decreased body weight, BMI, and total body fat, while fewer small fat cells were associated with increases in these measurements, regardless of whether the person had obesity or not.
The study also revealed that the association between fat cell volume and changes in body weight, BMI, and total body fat remained significant even after adjustments for age, physical activity, length of follow-up, and gender. Researchers suggested that small fat cells may increase the risk of weight gain but could also offer some benefits. Peter Arner, one of the study’s authors, explained that individuals with small fat cells have a better metabolic profile than those with large fat cells. He noted that small fat cells could reduce the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, even if weight gain occurs.
A study published in the Journal of Physiology in 2022 found that exercise, rather than weight loss, plays a crucial role in making fat cells healthier. The study, which included men with obesity who exercised for 12 weeks, revealed that exercise resulted in smaller fat cells with reduced inflammation and improved ability to take in excess calories. The researchers concluded that fat cell volume strongly influenced long-term changes in body weight, indicating new possibilities for early intervention in weight management. They suggested that measuring fat cell volume early in life could help individuals avoid weight issues later on.
Dr. Mir Ali, a bariatric surgeon, emphasized the importance of finding the right diet and cutting back on food intake to achieve weight loss. He noted that while genetics play a role in weight management, most people can overcome genetic factors through calorie reduction. Ali pointed out that fat cells shrink with weight loss but enlarge with weight regain. He highlighted the significance of metabolism in determining body weight, rather than the size or type of fat cells. While the study offers valuable insights into the relationship between fat cell size and weight management, Ali emphasized the importance of individualized approaches to weight loss.
Researchers believe that understanding the size of fat cells in an individual could be beneficial for weight management. They suggest that having information about fat cell size before starting a weight management program could be clinically valuable. While measuring fat cell size is currently challenging, researchers are working on developing a solution. They hope that by understanding fat cell size, individuals can receive personalized support in their weight management journey. Overall, the study sheds light on the role of fat cell volume in long-term changes in body weight and offers potential interventions to prevent weight issues in the future.
