Stubborn fat occurs in both men and women. This type of persistent fat is frustrating to target and reduce. Women’s bodies typically retain more fat cells in the lower body, such as hips, thighs, and buttocks. Men’s bodies more often store excess fat in the chin, chest, flanks, and belly areas.

Fat cells have two types of receptors; Alpha- 2 and Beta- 2. Alpha- 2 receptors tell cells to store fat for later use, while Beta- 2 receptors tell cells to break down and release fat for immediate use. Herein lies the physiology of stubborn fat. If a fat cell has more Alpha- 2 receptors, it will be inclined to resist diet and exercise by default, whereas fat cells with more Beta- 2 receptors respond to diet and exercise and break down and release fat. Areas of the body with greater fat cell distribution are also made of fat cells with more Alpha- 2 receptors than Beta- 2. Unfortunately, this means that getting rid of stubborn fat can be very difficult, and in some areas, like the belly or chin, it can be nearly impossible for some individuals.

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