If you gain weight around the middle, also known as the "apple" shape (like a beer gut, typical with men) then you've got more health issues. People with this body type are at a higher risk for diabetes and heart disease than those who are of the "pear" body shape. Fat stored in the abdomen is more active metabolically than fat stored in the hips and thighs. It will enter your circulation faster, which ups your blood sugar and cholesterol levels.