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Understanding the real relationship between Fat Loss and Metabolic Rate

May 17, 2021
December 18, 2025
Reviewed by:
Dr Ivan Puah, Medical Director

Often people equate fat loss to weight loss, but in reality, you could lose weight and still retain stubborn fat, which can be an appearance and health issue.

fat loss

Table of Contents

@amarisbclinic

Why is animal fat white and human fat yellow? Do humans have brown fat too? Any animals with beige fat? #tiktoksg #singapore #FYP #medicaltiktok #medicaltiktok #surgerytiktok #tiktoksingapore

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Excess fat is not only an appearance issue. They are potential causes of adverse health and overall wellbeing problems.

There are various fat loss solutions, including diet plans and exercise programs, that one can choose, but it’s essential, first and foremost, to understand what fat loss means.

Fat loss vs weight loss

Fat loss involves lowering your body fat percentage, that is to say, the amount of body fat you’re carrying.

Weight loss, on the other hand, is about reducing your overall body weight. Those who lose weight also experience a decrease in muscle mass.

Another common misconception is that fat can be turned into muscle. Fat and muscle are two different tissues. The optimum solution is to lose fat and build muscle.

Metabolic rate

The process by which the food and drink you consume are turned into energy is known as metabolism.

Metabolic rate refers to the speed at which that process occurs.

Metabolism occurs continuously whether your body is at work or at rest.

Fat loss

@amarisbclinic Fat loss and weight loss are not the same thing. The terms are often used interchangeably, which contributes to the confusion, and often, many people think losing weight can also lead to stubborn fat loss. Unfortunately, this is not true. #fyp #tiktoksg #tiktoksingapore #weightloss #fatloss #foodsg #exercisesg #selfconfidence #food ♬ original sound - Amaris B. Clinic Singapore

A typical fat loss program usually involves paying close attention to the types of food consumed, rather than focusing solely on a calorie deficit (which is more commonly associated with weight loss).

The program also includes exercises that help burn fat while preserving muscle, such as weightlifting and other forms of strength training.

Although these can sometimes see an increase on the weighing scale, they often result in a more toned and fit physical appearance.

Stubborn fat is a common issue

Regular exercise and disciplined dieting are good for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and losing weight. Still, problem areas such as the stomach, thighs, and arms seem immune, where fat stubbornly clings.

As distressing as it may sound, stubborn fat is a common problem.

Often, people equate fat loss with weight loss, but in reality, you could lose weight and still retain stubborn fat.

If you have trouble losing stubborn fat, know that Amaris B. Clinic offers a variety of liposuction services that could be the solution you need.

LEARN MORE ABOUT WEIGHT LOSS

Tailored medical weight loss and management programmes prescribed and monitored by Dr Ivan Puah, who holds a Graduate Diploma in Sports Medicine.

Reference

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