Carbohydrate intolerance among obese men

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

A study suggests that obese men can't process carbohydrates efficiently which could have an impact on fitness levels.
The way the body processes carbohydrates can lead to the build up of fatty deposits on muscle tissue, if impaired. A group in The Netherlands has looked at exercise capacity among 22 severely obese men and 34 severely obese women. They found 59 per cent of the men either had diabetes or were carb intolerant compared to 35 per cent of the women.

When tested, the women had better exercise endurance and lung capacity than the men. This may be due to the different fat distribution among women who have more lower body fat. The researchers conclude that weight loss surgery may be helpful in improving carb intolerance among severely obese men and this could improve their exercise capacity and lung functioning.

Source
Chest July 2005

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