Before menopause, most girls and women tend to store fat predominantly in the subcutaneous fat stores, specifically in the buttocks and thighs.
This pattern of fat distribution is largely influenced by hormones, particularly estrogen. Estrogen promotes the storage of fat in these areas. This type of fat is often referred to as "subcutaneous" because it is located directly under the skin.
Fat Storage Differences: Men vs. Women
It's important to understand that men and women typically store fat differently:
- Women (pre-menopause): Primarily store fat subcutaneously in the buttocks and thighs.
- Men: Are more prone to developing visceral fat, which is stored around the abdominal organs. Visceral fat is considered more metabolically active and can contribute to health risks.
- Women (post-menopause): After menopause, as estrogen levels decline, women become more likely to store fat in the abdomen, similar to men. This shift can increase the risk of certain health problems.
Types of Fat Storage
Understanding the different types of fat storage is key:
- Subcutaneous Fat: Located directly under the skin. This is the type of fat found in the buttocks and thighs of women before menopause.
- Visceral Fat: Stored around the abdominal organs. This type of fat is more closely linked to health risks like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
In summary, the primary fat storage location for most girls and pre-menopausal women is in their buttocks and thighs, due to hormonal influences.
