New research has found that there are both metabolically healthy and unhealthy forms of obesity, and both are associated with an increased risk of developing obesity-related cancers. Being metabolically unhealthy contributes to chronic health conditions, cancer, and disease. To improve metabolism, it is important to treat obesity, avoid overeating, eat more plant-based foods, and consider intermittent fasting which allows for the burning of excess fat.
The study, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, examined body mass index (BMI) and metabolic health associated with obesity-related cancer risk in around 800,000 European participants. The data collected determined an individual’s metabolic health status and they were classified into six different groups.
The researchers found that obese, but metabolically healthy women had a 2.4-fold higher risk of developing endometrial cancer and an 80% higher risk of kidney cancer. Obese and metabolically unhealthy men had a 2.6-fold higher risk of kidney cancer and an 85% higher risk of colon cancer. Metabolically healthy and unhealthy men and overweight individuals had a nearly 50% higher risk of multiple myeloma, a blood cancer.
The study shows that there is a strong link between metabolically unhealthy obesity and cancer risk, especially endometrial, liver, and kidney cancer. It is recommended that there be more aggressive screening for these cancers in people who are obese or have metabolic disorders.
There are some basic ways to manage metabolism, such as avoiding overeating, eating more plant-based foods, and getting physical activity. It is important to consult with your doctor to find out if there are any medical reasons or interventions needed to manage obesity and improve metabolism. It is also important to consider other factors that may contribute to obesity, such as medications, exposures to environmental toxins, or sleep deprivation.