In this talk, Dr. Ben Bikman explains why visceral fat is one of the most harmful forms of body fat. Unlike subcutaneous fat beneath the skin, visceral fat surrounds the abdominal organs and drains directly into the liver through the portal vein. As visceral fat cells enlarge, they become insulin resistant, releasing excess fatty acids and inflammatory signals that promote fatty liver, ectopic fat accumulation, chronic inflammation, and worsening insulin resistance throughout the body.

Dr. Bikman also explains why visceral fat is particularly responsive to exercise. Because it contains a high density of catecholamine receptors, physical activity preferentially stimulates the breakdown of visceral fat, even without dramatic changes in body weight. The presentation highlights why reducing visceral fat—not simply losing weight—is one of the most effective ways to improve metabolic health and lower the risk of chronic disease.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKgnWSReszU