The human body requires fat as it serves a crucial role in insulation, energy production, and hormonal regulation. However, not all fats are of equal benefit to the body.

The body has two types of fat; the white adipose tissue (WAT) and the brown adipose tissue (BAT). WAT is the body’s more abundant depot, and its levels sometimes determine a person’s weight.

BAT is found primarily around the neck, collarbone, spine, and chest, and its primary function is to generate heat in the body.

When unhealthy fats accumulate in the body, they can lead to chronic conditions that pose significant health risks.

1. Obesity

Obesity is a chronic medical condition that results from an excessive accumulation of unhealthy fat in the body’s adipose tissues. The body mass index (BMI) is a reliable indicator of body fat that genrally varies based on age, height, and sex.

A person whose BMI exceeds 30 kg/m² is considered obese and at risk of developing numerous health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.

2. Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular diseases refer to conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels, such as coronary artery disease, stroke, and heart failure. High-fat diets are one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

They contribute to the buildup of plaque in arterial walls, which leads to blockages and blood clots that can cause a heart attack or stroke.

3. Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body metabolizes sugar. It results from the body’s inability to produce enough insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

The accumulation of unhealthy fats in the body damages the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to insulin resistance and ultimately type 2 diabetes.

4. Alzheimer’s Disease

Researchers have found a strong correlation between obesity and Alzheimer’s disease. The accumulation of unhealthy fats in the body causes neuron damage in the brain, leading to cognitive decline and memory loss.

In addition, obesity causes inflammation, which is one of the precursors to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

5. Liver Disease

The liver is responsible for filtering toxins from the bloodstream and regulating the body’s metabolism. When the liver becomes overwhelmed with toxins, it can’t work effectively, causing fat to accumulate in the liver cells.

This condition is known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and it’s one of the leading causes of chronic liver disease worldwide.

6. Cancer

Obesity increases the risk of developing several types of cancer, including breast cancer, colon cancer, pancreatic cancer, and endometrial cancer in women.

High levels of certain hormones such as estrogen and insulin in obese people are responsible for the increase in cancer cases.

Foods to Avoid

Eliminating unhealthy fats from your diet can go a long way in reducing the risk of developing these chronic conditions. Below are some of the foods you should avoid:.

Sweets like candy, kits, and doughnuts
Fried foods like fried chicken and french fries
Processed meats, such as bacon, sausage, and hot dogs
High-fat dairy products like cheese and butter
Processed snacks like chips and crackers

Healthy Foods to Eat

Changing your diet to whole, healthy foods can reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases. Below are some of the healthy foods that you can eat to minimize the accumulation of unhealthy fats in your body:.