INFORMATION ON BODY COMPOSITION
VISCERAL FAT
Visceral fat is found in the abdomen and surrounding vital organs. It is different from fat found directly underneath the skin, which is referred to as subcutaneous fat. Visceral fat can go largely unnoticed because it’s not visible to the naked eye. One way visceral fat can be seen is through Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
MRI Cross Section at the Navel Level
Subcutaneous Fat
Visceral Fat
Spine
Too much visceral fat is thought to be closely linked to increased levels of fat in the bloodstream, which may lead to conditions such as high cholesterol, heart disease and type 2 diabetes. In order to prevent or improve these conditions, it is important to try to reduce the amount of visceral fat levels to an acceptable level.
Interpreting the Visceral Fat Level Result
Visceral Fat Level < 9 | 10 < Visceral Fat Level < 14 | _ | 15 |
Visceral Fat Level > | |||
0 (Normal) | + (High) | ++ (Very High) |
|
Visceral fat area (0 - approx. 300 cm2, 1 inch=2.54 cm) distribution with 30 levels.
Source: Omron Healthcare
NOTE: Visceral fat levels are relative and not absolute values.
8