Weight reduction and fat reduction are phrases often used interchangeably, but they signify different facets of your health journey.
Weight Reduction: Weight reduction refers to a decrease in your total body weight. This includes losses from muscle, water, and fat¹. Weight reduction can also occur due to other factors, such as changes in bone mineral or glycogen stores². When you reduce weight, you may lose water and muscle, not just fat². Reducing weight in the form of muscle can decrease the number of calories you burn at rest, making it easier to regain any weight you lost in the form of fat¹.
Fat Reduction: Fat reduction, on the other hand, refers to losing only excess fat from the body¹. Fat reduction is a more specific and healthful goal than weight reduction¹. Losing fat is more beneficial than losing water or muscle, so it is helpful to be aware of body composition and how it affects health². Maintaining your muscle mass may also reduce your risk of age-related muscle loss, which results in frailty and potentially disability¹.
Measuring Fat Reduction: It can be difficult to know whether you’re reducing weight from fat or muscle. Most scales don’t differentiate between fat reduction and muscle reduction. For that reason, tracking only your weight isn’t a reliable way to determine whether you’re reducing fat or muscle and in what amounts¹. Conversely, a body fat scale can provide a more accurate picture of your body composition by measuring the percentage of fat and muscle you have¹.
Focus on Fat Reduction: Emphasizing fat reduction rather than weight reduction can decrease the risk of several chronic diseases, help reduce the risk of age-related muscle loss, and reduce fat regain¹. There are a few simple ways to ensure you’ll reduce weight in the form of fat and either maintain or gain muscle mass. These include eating plenty of protein, exercising regularly, and following a nutrient-dense diet that puts you in a slight calorie deficit¹.
In conclusion, while both weight reduction and fat reduction can contribute to a healthier body, focusing on fat reduction and maintaining muscle mass can lead to more sustainable and healthier outcomes. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any weight reduction or fat reduction plan.
Reports: