Why is abdominal visceral fat considered more dangerous than subcutaneous fat?

Abdominal visceral fat is considered more dangerous than subcutaneous fat primarily because it has a direct impact on metabolic health. Visceral fat, located deeper in the abdominal cavity, surrounds vital organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines. Unlike subcutaneous fat, which is situated just under the skin and has a less immediate effect on bodily functions, visceral fat cells release their metabolic products directly into the portal circulation.

This direct route allows substances like free fatty acids and inflammatory markers to enter the bloodstream and influence the liver and other organs without any filtration. The metabolic products from visceral fat can lead to insulin resistance, increased inflammation, and even hormonal imbalances that heighten the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately portray the unique risks associated with visceral fat. While abdominal subcutaneous fat is located just below the skin, it typically does not exert the same significant impact on organ function or metabolic processes as visceral fat. The linkage of subcutaneous fat to heightened stress response doesn't inherently explain its danger compared to visceral fat.