Belly Shapes and Hidden Health Clues

Perhaps the most commonly discussed belly shape linked to health risks is the "apple" or visceral obesity. Characterized by a larger accumulation of fat around the waist and abdomen, giving the torso a rounder appearance, this type of fat is metabolically active and produces inflammatory substances. It is strongly correlated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome, which includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and elevated triglyceride levels, all precursors to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.