Apple vs. pear shape. Which is worse for your health? | Midwest Weight Control

For the most part, the shape of your body can be described by referencing fruit. Banana shaped people are tall and thin, apple shaped folks have large midsections, and pear shaped individuals tend to have larger hips and thighs. While it might be interesting to think of yourself as a Fruit of the Loom character, in reality your fruit equivalent sheds light on where your body holds most of its fat, and potential health concerns you may face.

In general, those who are pear shaped have less risk of heart disease than those who are apple shaped. Apple shaped individuals are more likely to have a waistline that is indicative of high cholesterol and other factors that lead to heart disease.

That being said, anyone–pear shaped, banana shaped or otherwise can be at risk for heart disease. High LDL cholesterol and triglycerides can hide within any body type, so those who are not apple shaped should not assume they are out of the woods. Be sure to meet with your primary care physician regularly to help assess your physical health and take medications that may prevent heart attack. With the help of your doctor, you can be on the road to good health once again.