Stout Stems a Biological Advantage? Why Thicker Thighs Could Mean Longer Lives

Posted on September 12, 2009 in Health & Medicine, Recent Studies

Countless exercise regimens and magic creams promise thinner legs. But now those with sizeable thighs may have reason to celebrate their curves.

A new study indicates that women and men with larger sized thighs are less likely to die young than those with thin thighs. The Danish study conducted by Copenhagen University Hospital found that even when adjusting for smoking, age, and overall body fat, people with large thighs were less likely to die during the 12 year study period. Those with the thinnest thighs (less than 18 inches) were more than twice as likely to die than their meatier counterparts.

The reason for the difference in mortality could be related to where different body types put on weight. Most people carry extra fat either in their bellies or around their hips. Belly fat infiltrates internal organs, leading to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other medical problems. Researchers concluded that the location of fat may be more important than the total amount of fat on the body. Therefore, the pear-shaped body may live longer.

This theory corroborates other studies that have shown a connection between larger waist size and higher rates of heart disease and diabetes.