Expert: David Olson, MD - 11/4/2009

Question
Dr.,
Do you think there is merit in somatyping the human body?
Ectomorphs, mesomorphs, endomorphs.
Two of my children have struggled with their weight in spite of being light eaters and very active.THey have been checked for everythingincluding thyroid and results come back OK.
I recently discovered they have all the characteristics of an endomorph.
My other child is a classic mesomorph. Eats like a horse, not very active.
I believe that I myself am an endomorph.
Although it doesnt help me, it gives me some understanding, assuming the somatype science is correct.
Thanks for your thoughts.

Answer
Hi, Van,

The classic mesomorph, as far as I understand this concept, is active.  

Somatotyping is an old concept from the 40's that is not very well held in 2009.  

Whether one is endomorphic (fat), ectomorphic (skinny) or mesomorphic (muscular) or a combination of the above, is perhaps significant with respect to ability to gain weight.  It may explain why some people have problems losing weight.  

Being overweight has health consequences, whatever body type.

Good luck, Dr. Olson