Visceral Fat
Definition
Visceral fat is the "hidden" fat stored deep inside the abdominal cavity, surrounding the internal organs. It is more metabolically active and inflammatory than the subcutaneous fat stored just under the skin.
In Depth
A shift in fat distribution is a primary metabolic event of menopause. Estrogen typically encourages fat storage in the hips and thighs. As estrogen declines, the body changes its "storage map," prioritizing the abdomen. This "menopause belly" is often composed of visceral fat. Unlike the fat on your legs, visceral fat acts like an endocrine organ, secreting pro-inflammatory cytokines that interfere with insulin signaling. This leads to a state of chronic inflammation and increases the risk of insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Why It Matters
Visceral fat is the primary driver of increased heart disease risk after menopause. Understanding it as an active inflammatory tissue—rather than just "weight gain"—justifies metabolic strategies like strength training.