Fantastic news for Sir Mix-A-Lot and his ilk: A new study by a team of British researchers suggests that having a big butt may protect you from certain diseases. The review, published in the International Journal of Obesity found that people who carry more fat in their bums and thighs are at a lower risk of developing diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other obesity-related conditions.

At last, my generous tuchas may actually be an asset (Ha! Yes, pun intended.) According to the study, fat stored in the thighs and buttocks is more metabolically stable than fat stored in the stomach, which has been linked to an increased risk for obesity-related diseases. Fat in the posterior is protective because it doesn’t cytokines (cells that promote inflammation) into the body.

Seem too good to be true? Some experts seem to think so. While booty fat may be less harmful than a tummy tire, it can't be considered harmless. Not to mention that if you gain weight, there’s no telling where it will end up. So your best bet is still to maintain a healthy weight for your body type. But if you do happen to have a large derriere, sport your skinny jeans with pride!

Does this study make you feel better about the size of your butt? Or were you already in love with your big booty?

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