When referring to body shape, especially with women, you are generally classified as either an apple or a pear shape. Your shape will dictate where you store the majority of your fat. Pear-shaped bodies tend to store fat lower in the hips and thighs, while apples store fat around the middle. The apple shape is more dangerous in terms of health risks.
Apple Characteristics
Some of the determining factors regarding your body shape are hormones and heredity, according to The Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide. Apple body shapes store fat deep within the midsection. This fat is known as visceral fat and has a tendency to surround the organs. Visceral fat can have a negative effect on blood sugar and cause inflammation in the body.
Diet Plan
Due to the effect apple shapes have on blood sugar, it is wise to adopt an eating system that centers around foods lower on the glycemic index, suggests "Time" magazine. This will restrict simple carbohydrates like refined flour and sugar and work to keep your blood sugar levels regulated. Focus on foods like whole grains, vegetables and lean protein sources such as beef, chicken and eggs.
Glycemic Index
The glycemic index is a good guide to base a diet on for an apple-shaped person. Basically, the index is a system of rating how quickly a specific food will raise your blood glucose levels. The starting point is pure glucose, which has a rating of 100. All other foods are based on that number. Foods with a glycemic index rating of 55 or lower are considered low-glycemic foods.
Apple Risks
The health risks associated with carrying around an apple-shaped body can be quite serious. Too much visceral fat can contribute to diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke and increased cancer risk, reports "CBS News," adding that women with an apple shape are more prone to anxiety, depression, fertility issues and menstrual problems.
Considerations
The good news for people with an apple shape is that visceral fat responds well to exercise and changes in diet, explains The Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide. Adding 30 minutes of aerobic activity each day along with dietary changes will help you reduce your waistline and avoid serious health concerns. If you are an apple shape, visit your doctor to have your blood sugar tested before you begin any program.
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