Yes, the tongue contains fat, particularly at its base. Studies show a correlation between body mass index (BMI) and the amount of fat in the tongue. Higher BMIs are associated with a greater proportion of fat, especially concentrated in the back of the tongue.
Evidence from Research
Multiple studies support the presence of fat in the human tongue:
- Autopsy studies: These studies have directly demonstrated a significant percentage of fat within the tongue, with a higher concentration at the base. [Source: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4173920/]
- BMI and Tongue Fat: Research indicates a strong link between increased body mass index and a greater proportion of fat within the tongue. [Source: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4173913/]
- Sleep Apnea and Tongue Fat: Studies suggest that excess fat in the tongue contributes to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by increasing tongue size and obstructing the airway. [Source: https://www.cnn.com/2020/01/10/health/tongue-fat-sleep-apnea-wellness/index.html]
Implications
The presence of fat in the tongue has implications for several health conditions, including:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Excess tongue fat can worsen OSA symptoms by enlarging the tongue and narrowing the airway.
- Overall Health: The amount of tongue fat can reflect overall body fat percentage and may be an indicator of overall health.
