Do You Lose Fat in the Last Place You Gained It?

The weight-loss process can be a challenge, and not being able to predict where the pounds will start shedding first can be frustrating. Weight-loss myths, like you lose fat first in the last place you gained it, can contribute to the disappointment when the results you are expecting fail to occur. However, by understanding how the body burns fat and ways you can help it do so, you can realize your target weight-loss results sooner than you might think.

  1. The Myth

    • Many people are mislead in thinking that the last fat you gained will be the first fat you lose. This is not true. While some may notice weight loss in that last area of weight gain, it is purely coincidental. The body does not pick and choose where it burns fat, nor can you target specific areas for weight loss. Weight loss occurs throughout your entire body and in the same proportion that it's distributed over your body.

    How the Body Burns Fat

    • Your body burns fat systematically by using stored fat as energy when you use more calories than you consume. You have to use 3,500 calories in order to burn 1 pound of fat. This energy is taken from fat cells stored throughout your body and this process is done to each fat cell proportionately. When you burn fat, your fat cells shrink but they do not go away, so they have the potential to get big again if you start to consume more calories than you burn.

    Individual Differences

    • Each person is different; in the same manner that everyone gains weight differently, people tend to lose weight differently as well. Losing weight can change your body size but it does not affect your body type. Women, who tend to be more pear-shaped, can lose weight but will still be pear-shaped; men, who tend to be more apple-shaped, will still be apple-shaped, just thinner. People burn fat at various rates as well due to differences in metabolism. Those with a faster metabolism can burn fat more quickly than someone who's metabolism is slower. Genetics, hormones and overall body chemistry are also factors in how your body stores fat and how quickly it can shed pounds.

    Weight-Loss Methods

    • Although spot-reduction of fat is not possible and losing weight in the last place you gained it does not always apply, there are things you can do to lose weight over your entire body. Fat is burned when you create a calorie deficit. Therefore, participating in aerobic exercise and strength training can help burn calories and lead to weight loss. Mayo Clinic recommends doing at least 150 minutes of moderate, or 75 minutes of vigorous, aerobic activity a week to maintain weight, and more if you are trying to lose weight. In addition, they suggest engaging in strength-training exercises at least twice a week to help with this goal. Consistently eating a low-fat diet will also help you lose weight by reducing the number of calories you consume compared the amount your body uses each day.