Dr Troickis said: “People should know that where they carry fat as well as how much of it they have makes a difference [to their health].”
Being apple-shaped means you’re more likely to suffer from a serious health condition.
“A number of health conditions are linked to obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is one of them,” said Dr Troickis.
Carrying too much weight around your midriff could be a tell-tale sign that your liver could be inflamed.
Yet, in the beginning, “most people… won’t display any symptoms” of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), even though the condition is dangerous.
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The liver is a vital organ that carries out a number of important functions, including clearing the body of toxins.
NAFLD occurs when there is a build-up of fat in the organ, as the name suggests.
Dr Troickis said: “If you are diagnosed, you will need to make changes to ensure the condition does not progress.
“Over time, the inflammation could scar the organ and lead to later stages of the disease which can mean permanent damage and stop the organ from functioning properly.
”This is when serious problems are seen, such as cirrhosis.”
People who are diagnosed with NAFLD might be advised to lose weight by their doctor.
Healthy weight loss would require eating a healthy, balanced diet – rich in fruit and vegetables – and exercising more.
Dr Troickis said: “The benefits of losing weight are far-reaching and should not be underestimated.
“It is important to remember that sustainable weight loss is only achieved through rebalancing the diet in line with a person’s needs.
“Some people can do this on their own, while others will need medical intervention to succeed.
“So it is important to speak to your doctor before you embark on a new weight loss plan.”
Dr Troickis added: “Gastric sleeve surgery is considered for those with a BMI [body mass index] over 30, while people with a BMI over 35 can be considered for gastric bypass surgery.
“Surgery is a last resort and should only be considered once someone has been unable to lose weight using other methods.
“It is a great tool but it is not a ‘magic cure’ and the person will still need to work to change their lifestyle to achieve great results.”
Dr Igors Troickis is the leading bariatric surgeon at Weight Loss Riga.
