New research suggests exercise may enhance your body's ability to store fat more efficiently

Exercise doesn't just help with fat loss; it may also foster healthier fat storage, a recent study reveals.

Dr. Jeffrey Horowitz, senior author of the study and a professor at the University of Michigan, explains, 'A physically active lifestyle helps our fat tissue better accommodate excess energy, especially when we gain weight.'

In a study published in Nature Metabolism, researchers compared subcutaneous fat from two groups of 16 people with obesity: one group exercised regularly (at least 4 times a week for 2+ years), and the other did not.

Those with a history of consistent exercise exhibited fat cells with more blood vessels, different protein structures, and fewer inflammatory cells, which aid in fat storage, according to Horowitz.

It's crucial for subcutaneous fat to have a higher storage capacity so that, if weight is gained, it can be stored there rather than in more dangerous areas like the heart or liver, Horowitz explained.

Horowitz acknowledged, 'Unfortunately, most of us, even those who exercise regularly, tend to gain weight as we age. But if we can store more fat in our tissue, less of it will end up in the liver, heart, or other problematic areas.'

Dr. Andrew Freeman, director of cardiovascular prevention at National Jewish Health in Denver, emphasized that this study highlights the need for more research on fat tissue and its link to metabolic health and lifestyle changes, though he was not involved in the research.

'Simply being overweight may not fully explain the issue,' Freeman added.

Improved fat tissue

The word 'fat' often carries a negative connotation, but this reaction isn't always productive, according to Horowitz.

Horowitz emphasized, 'Fat tissue is crucial for health. It serves as an important reserve for excess energy.'

While fat tissue was once seen only as a storage medium for energy, researchers are now discovering its broader functions. Freeman noted, 'Having some fat reserve is sensible, but not to the extreme that many Americans have today.'

The goal isn't to increase fat tissue, but to enhance its ability to store fat efficiently, Horowitz explained. Fat should be stored beneath the skin, and when it can't, it accumulates in organs like the liver, heart, or pancreas, which can impair their function.

Exercise guidelines

The main takeaway from the study is that improved fat storage is another compelling reason to maintain an active lifestyle, according to Horowitz.

'We're not altering the advice, but we're deepening our understanding of why exercise is so beneficial,' he added.

Freeman suggests starting your day with exercise as a simple way to get started on the path to better health.

'Exercise acts as a natural energy booster, much like coffee in many cases,' he explained. Plus, you don’t need to worry about gym memberships or commuting.

'There are countless ways to exercise, but the key is to find a routine that you can stick to every day so it becomes a habit,' Freeman noted.

The goal is to engage in 30 minutes of intense activity each day that leaves you breathless, but starting with something as simple as a walk around your block can be a good first step.

'Of course, it’s important to consult with your doctor first to ensure it’s safe for you,' Freeman added.