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It is fairly well established that visceral fat is associated with insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome.

In this large study, waist to hip ratio (WHR) better predicted heart disease risk factors than waist circumference, regardless of BMI. Larger hip circumference (in relation to waist circumference) was protective against heart disease risk factors. This is consistant with previous findings.

Low WHR’s are associated with improved insulin signalling, while high WHR’s are associated with insulin resistance.

Abstract

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a marker for inflammation and a risk factor for heart disease. Aerobic exercise does not significantly lower CRP. The aerobic exercise groups did achieve improvements in body weight and aerobic capacity.

The slight improvements in CRP levels were most likely due to reductions in fasting insulin and lower body weight. CRP can be lowered by lowering saturated fat intake, increasing fiber and limiting sugar. Fish oil, aspirin and some antioxidants also appear to lower CRP.

Abstract

The Satiety Quotient is a formula for measuring the satiating effect of a particular food. The Satiety Quotient is calculated by dividing the difference between the hunger rating (before and after eating) by the calories.

This study confirmed that the Satiety Quotient performs better than other methodologies used to measure appetite and food intake.

Foods that rate high on the Satiety Quotient are foods that have high levels of protein, fiber and water. Foods that rank low are high fat and sugar foods.

Abstract

Carnitine is an amino acid responsible for transporting fatty acids into a cells mitochondria. Because it is required to burn fat, it has been widely speculated that increasing carnitine intake would also increase fat oxidation.

The following study showed no difference between carnitine and placebo. Carnitine is synthesized within the body from the amino acids lysine or methionine. Apparantly this is done at a satifactory rate and carnitine is not a limiting factor in fat loss.

Abstract