Two people, the same height, the same weight, the same BMI – and yet a completely different metabolic risk. The difference is not on the scales, but in the distribution of adipose tissue. Where the body stores fat says more about cardiometabolic risk than the total amount.
At the Center for Prevention and Nutrition in Berlin-Moabit, the assessment of the metabolic situation focuses not only on body weight, but in particular on the question: Where is adipose tissue located – and what metabolic relevance does it have?
Not all fat is the same
Adipose tissue fulfils physiological functions. It stores energy, protects organs and is hormonally active. However, what matters is where this tissue is located.
A broad distinction is made between:
• subcutaneous fat (under the skin)
• visceral fat (in the abdominal cavity, stored around organs)
Scientific studies show that visceral fat has significantly higher metabolic activity and is more strongly associated with insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia and cardiovascular risks.
A fundamental overview is provided by Després (2012, Circulation), who describes the central role of fat distribution in cardiometabolic diseases.
Evidence from large cohort studies
Data from the Framingham Heart Study (Fox et al., 2007) show that visceral adipose tissue correlates significantly with metabolic risk factors – independently of body mass index.
These data make it clear: two people with identical body weight can have a completely different metabolic risk.
Why BMI is not enough
The body mass index is a statistical tool. It takes neither muscle mass nor fat distribution into account.
A BMI within the normal range does not rule out increased visceral fat mass. Conversely, an elevated BMI can be due to a high proportion of muscle.
For a preventive strategy, BMI alone is therefore not sufficient.
Differentiated assessment at the Center for Prevention and Nutrition
At the Center for Prevention and Nutrition in Berlin-Moabit, fat distribution is recorded in a differentiated way as part of a structured body analysis.
In addition to the medical history, body composition is assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) — a scientifically established and clinically validated method (Kyle et al., 2004).
The focus is particularly on:
• total fat mass
• visceral fat indicators
• muscle mass
• ratio of fat mass to muscle mass
• development over time
Through structured progress documentation, changes can be observed objectively and strategies adjusted in a targeted way.
Prevention means early classification
Visceral fat often develops unnoticed. Externally visible changes are not necessarily proportional to internal fat distribution.
An early differentiated analysis makes it possible to classify risks preventively and plan measures in a structured way.
As part of a prevention-oriented nutrition strategy, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids can be considered – Omega 3 forte 700 contains EPA and DHA; EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart.
Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced, varied diet and a healthy lifestyle. The stated recommended daily intake must not be exceeded.
Especially in the professionally demanding environment of Berlin-Mitte, a data-based assessment is helpful in order to make long-term decisions on a sound basis.
Summary
Visceral fat has a metabolic relevance of its own.
The distribution of adipose tissue is more informative for risk assessment than total weight alone.
At the Center for Prevention and Nutrition in Berlin-Moabit, structured body analysis enables a differentiated assessment of fat distribution as well as objective progress monitoring as part of preventive strategies.
Would you like to have your diet analysed in a targeted way and your body composition measured professionally? Book your appointment in Berlin or online now.
Would you like to assess your fat distribution precisely?
At the Center for Prevention and Nutrition in Berlin-Moabit, we record relevant parameters of body composition in a structured way and document changes over time.
A differentiated analysis enables a sound preventive classification.
More about structured body analysis
Literature
Després, J.-P. (2012). Body fat distribution and risk of cardiovascular disease: an update.
Fox, C.S. et al. (2007). Abdominal visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue compartments.
Lee, J.S. et al. (2020). Visceral adiposity and metabolic risk factors.
Kyle, U.G. et al. (2004). Bioelectrical impedance analysis—principles and methods.
Sergi, G. et al. (2015). Bioelectrical impedance analysis: clinical review.
This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice or treatment.
Owner and founder of the Zentrum für Prävention und Ernährung in Berlin. Entrepreneur and project manager with more than 15 years of experience leading international projects in health and education. Responsible for building, strategy and day-to-day management of the centre.
