Estrogen plays a pivotal role in regulating various aspects of women’s health, including fat distribution. Recent studies have revealed some fascinating insights into the relationship between estrogen and fat storage in the body. For instance, a research paper published in the journal Frontiers in Endocrinology in 2018 found that estradiol, a form of estrogen, plays a crucial role in shaping fat distribution in the body.
Interestingly, estradiol determines how fat is stored, particularly on the hips and thighs. So, higher levels of estradiol can predispose you to accumulate fat in these regions, giving you a “pear-shaped” body. On the other hand, lower levels of estradiol can shift fat distribution towards the abdominal area, resulting in the “apple-shaped” figure with a rounder midsection. This shift is concerning because belly fat is frequently linked with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome and its related health complications (via Mayo Clinic).