Gynoid Obesity

Definition

Gynoid obesity refers to the accumulation of excess body fat around the hips and thighs, common in women, often giving a pear-shaped body appearance.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Gynoid obesity is characterized by the peripheral accumulation of adipose tissue, particularly subcutaneous fat, in the lower body regions such as the hips, buttocks, and thighs. This type of fat distribution is often considered less harmful than visceral fat associated with android obesity, but it can still pose health risks.

Benefits

• Typically associated with lower risk of cardiovascular diseases compared to abdominal fat.
• May indicate a lower level of visceral fat, which is linked to metabolic issues.

Examples

• A pear-shaped body where the hips are significantly wider than the waist.
• Individuals with a waist-to-hip ratio that is less than 0.85 for females.

Additional Information

• Effects: Gynoid obesity can have implications for mobility and orthopedic health due to increased lower body mass. Hormonal factors play a significant role in fat distribution patterns.

Related Terms

• Waist circumference
• Waist-to-hip ratio
• Android obesity
• Body Mass Index (BMI)

References

• Fat distribution: A review of gender differences in response to dietary intervention.
• The role of body fat distribution in risk of cardiovascular disease.