Even the most casual observer may notice that the adipose tissue distribution does not exist for everybody, at the same anatomic location. When the adipose tissue is located predominantly on the upper part of the body, ii is called the android type, masculine, central, or “apple-shaped” distribution. This pattern of distribution is more frequent in men, therefore being called android and masculine. When the adipose tissue is predominantly stocked in the lower part of the organism, the designation used is gynoid, feminine or “pear-shaped” form.

Women normally present a larger fat distribution in the lower part of the body. As age progresses the fat distribution may change, for instance after menopause when a larger distribution of fat is observed in the upper body. This phenomenon occurs due to a reduction of the lipoprotein lipase activity, lesser in the lower region of the human body. Finally, extreme gain of pounds and weight variations, the “yo-yo effect”, may also increase the quantity of fat in the upper zone.

That is why it is so important to get professional help for a weight and fat reduction program in localised zones, because a simple diet and physical exercise will act indiscriminately all over the body.