Body Fat Facts & Myths

Body fat is essential and has many functions besides storing energy (calories).

Too many people have excess body fat increasing the risk of serious chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, joint pain, and heart disease.

Excess body fat is usually caused by eating more calories than your body needs. The American processed food diet is a leading cause of excess fat and weight.

Processed foods tend to be high in calories and sodium. While sodium is an essential mineral, too much sodium can cause water retention and increased blood pressure. High blood pressure is known as a silent killer because people do not know they have it until other symptoms develop.

This video looks at some of the facts and myths about body fat.