Being 'healthy fat' still doesn't offset the risk of a host of conditions, new research on Brits reveals. A study of nearly half a million people shows that even if they stick to a healthy diet, being fat still leaves them at a greater risk of health problems.
Eating plenty of fruit and vegetables, taking regular exercise, drinking in moderation and not smoking protects against a wide rage of illnesses, the study shows. But benefits are modest in those with a BMI (body mass index) of 30 or above, say scientists.
The findings are based on 438,500 over-40s from the UK Biobank - a database holding detailed information about their genes and health. Corresponding author Dr Sebastien Czernichow, of the Public Assistance Hospital of Paris, said: "Adults with obesity were at a higher risk of various diseases compared with those who maintained a healthy body weight and lifestyle.
