Women With Curvier Hips and Bigger Buttocks May Be Healthier and Smarter, Says Oxford Study

A recent study from the University of Oxford has stirred up conversation both online and in the media — and it’s not just about appearances. According to researchers, women with more fat distributed around the hips and buttocks may not only enjoy better overall health but also tend to score higher in measures of intelligence.

Published in the International Journal of Obesity, the study analyzed data from over 16,000 women, looking at fat distribution, cholesterol levels, hormone balance, and cognitive health.

What Did the Study Find?

• Lower cholesterol levels: Women with more fat in the hips and thighs had healthier lipid profiles.

• Improved hormone regulation: Fat stored in these areas appears to play a role in producing beneficial hormones that protect the heart and brain.

• Higher cognitive function: The study noted a link between this body type and increased intelligence, which may be associated with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids stored in lower body fat.

Why Does This Matter?

This research challenges outdated beauty standards and reinforces the importance of body diversity in health science. It also opens new conversations about how body shape can be linked to deeper metabolic and cognitive functions.

As with all studies, experts stress that health isn’t one-size-fits-all, and more research is needed. But the takeaway is powerful: our bodies are more complex—and often more capable—than we give them credit for.