Apples vs Pears- the whys and hows behind sex different fat accumulation

In January 2026, we explored whether maternal concentrations of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) influence infant cognitive development. This inquiry aligns with a popular notion circulating in media: “Thick thighs in women create smarter children”.

Women traditionally have higher body fat percentages than men, and distinct fat distribution patterns, we asked—does this trend always hold true? Why are “thick” thighs considered the norm in female fat distribution?

Traditional body fat distribution patterns are clearly documented:

• Men = android fat distribution pattern and preferentially accumulate fat in the abdomen.

• Women = gynoid fat distribution pattern and more likely accumulate lipids in the gluteal and femoral regions of the body.

The translation: when men gain weight it typically is in the apple shape, whilst for women, the pear shape. But it is so much more than that. Men also carry more visceral (intra-abdominal) fat than women, regardless of overall adiposity.

Gaining weight, simply put is calories in, calories out. But it is not as simple as that. What happens to our fat cells? Either through hypertrophy (enlargement of existing fat cells) or hyperplasia (formation of new fat cells). And interestingly, there are various influencing factors for women and men impacting the formation and distribution of fat. The 4 main interesting facts seen are:

1. A decrease in androgen levels is associated with weight gain in men, specifically in abdominal fat accumulation.

2. Several studies in women have not found a significant association between abdominal body fat distribution and free circulating androgens in women.

3. Menopausal women have been seen with decreasing levels of oestrogen and increased freely circulating androgens has been associated with an increase in abdominal fat accumulation.

4. Androgen levels have an inhibitory effect on fat cell formation in both men and women, but not in the expansion of existing fat cells.

   
   

Left: Hypertrophy (enlarged fat cell). Right: Hyperplasia (new fat cell formation)

Androgen concentration in women have been primarily studied in women with PCOS (Poly-Cystic Ovarian Syndrome), a population which typically presents with abnormally stubborn abdominal fat accumulation. To find out more about PCOS, click: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7fzyujXDbJA9q11NtQMgKv?si=6f1f7fd43b734c4b or https://www.stepwithnutrition.com/post/the-nitty-gritty-about-pcos .

Interestingly, androgen concentrations in men have been associated with reduced lipid uptake and synthesis of fat cells. This has not been consistently seen in women, with phases of menstruation impacting both the formation of new fat cells, lipid intake and distribution of fat in women differently. The reasons for this have not yet been irrevocably proven with various studies showing contradicting results.

The generally accepted hypothesis for the traditional female fat distribution is to prevent additional pressure on vital organs during pregnancy. A few things are clear, female fat metabolism and distribution is impacted by their menstrual cycle. There are currently not enough studies done in this gender on the topic.

Until next time

Shelldon Breda, registered dietitian, M.Sc.