Physically fit individuals decrease their risk of disease, increase their metabolism, and have stronger bones. In terms of life expectancy, the researchers found that the fit, fat men lived as long as the fit, trimmer group. These results appear to show fitness as a more significant factor than fatness. On the other side, there are experts who would not discount obesity so easily. Even though one may eat a varied and well-balanced diet and exercise regularly, which are good things, they feel obesity is inconsistent with good health.
Obesity is an established risk factor for heart disease, certain cancers, and stroke.
Although you may be fat and fit, these experts believe that if you slim down, you will be healthier. Studies to support this argument have demonstrated further improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar with weight loss among the obese. A 1995 study done at the CDC examined whether weight loss in overweight white women, ages 40 - 64, improved their longevity. They found that in women who had a health condition related to obesity, weight loss did improve their lifespan. In those with no pre-existing illness, if they intentionally lost more than 20 pounds in the preceding year, there was a 25 percent reduction in death from cancer or heart disease.