A recent study from Oxford University has been making waves across social media and global headlines,
revealing that women with larger buttocks are not only generally healthier but may also be smarter.
The research, which examined data from more than 16,000 women,
suggests that the way fat is distributed in the body can play a significant role in overall health and cognitive development.
Unlike fat that accumulates around the abdomen, which is linked to higher risks of cardiovascular disease and metabolic problems, fat stored in the hips, thighs, and buttocks appears to have protective benefits.
This type of fat is rich in omega-3 fatty acids — essential nutrients known to support both heart and brain function
. It also helps reduce levels of bad cholesterol and contributes to better blood sugar regulation, offering a metabolic advantage that could lower the risk of conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease.
Dr. Konstantinos Manolopoulos, the study’s lead author, explained that women with a higher proportion of gluteal fat tend to have a more favorable metabolic profile.
This means their bodies are better equipped to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, manage insulin more effectively, and avoid the complications often associated with poor metabolic health.
Beyond physical well-being, the presence of omega-3 fatty acids is also linked to improved brain performance, suggesting a connection between this fat distribution and cognitive abilities.
Researchers believe these findings highlight an evolutionary advantage, where storing fat in the lower body provides a long-term energy reserve that benefits both the body and the brain.
The protective properties of this fat, combined with its nutritional composition, may explain why women with this body type often show resilience against certain chronic illnesses while also displaying sharper mental performance.
While the study is not meant to set beauty standards or idealize specific body shapes
, it reinforces the idea that health is influenced by more than just weight alone. Where fat is stored matters, and for many women, having fuller hips and buttocks could be a sign of a healthier metabolic and cognitive profile.
These results add to a growing body of research showing that body composition and fat distribution are key factors in understanding overall health.
