Weight Loss without Worry

     The American Institute of Cancer Research (AICR) recently confirmed what many of us suspected, there is a link between carrying excess body fat and cancer, but how does this work?

     It is explained by looking at the science of the body.  Stored fat does not just sit on our body taking up space, it is a living material.  Fat cells produce the hormone estrogen which encourages cell growth, they also produce proteins that cause inflammation and insulin resistance which further promotes cell growth and reproduction.  So overweight people have more substances flowing in their blood that promote cell division than a person with little excess fat.  The problem?  The more opportunities there are for cells to divide, the higher the risk that cancer may develop. 

     Another point made by the AICR is that all fat is not created equal, fat that accumulates around the waist, common in men, but also seen in women who are apple-shaped is even more active in producing these growth stimulants.

     This is just one more reason to maintain a healthy weight and body fat percentage.  To read more about this study and see the recommendations the AICR has for maintaining a healthy weight click here.