Dangers of Belly Fat

Most people think that the dangers of belly fat shows when we look into the mirror at ourselves or step on a scale but that isn’t true.  Doctors have a catchy term for that too-familiar round belly -- the "apple" shape. If your fat has settled on the buttocks and thighs, you're a "pear" shape. Don't get sidetracked with the cutesy names, however. Belly fat (aka visceral fat) is serious business.

"A big waistline puts you at increased risk for many health problems -- diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and strokes," says Robert Eckel, MD, president of the American Heart Association.

Being overweight in general is a health risk, but abdominal fat puts you at higher risk than weight in other parts of the body. This visceral fat deep inside the abdomen can produce hormones and other substances that promote insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes. It also produces an increase of breast cancer and other cancerous risk.

What Dangers could Belly Fat cause?

Are there other associated risks ?

Dangers of belly fat

There are many. In addition to increasing diabetes and breast cancer risk, belly fat increases the risks of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, gallbladder, high cholesterol, colon cancer problems and colorectal cancer.

How can you know if you’re at risk ?

Women measure your waist with a tape measure. If your waist comes in at more than 35 inches, even if your overall weight is normal, you are at risk and should work to reduce this fat. For men, the cutoff is 40 inches

Is it possible to reduce belly fat?

Yes. Fortunately, this kind of fat responds well to diet and exercise. To reduce belly fat, exercise for 30 minutes a day at moderate intensity. It’s also important to watch your diet. Cut back on all high calorie foods, especially saturated fats. Eat more fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. And reduce your portion sizes and caloric intake.

Even skinny people can have unhealthy "hidden" belly fat. Research shows that fat may be folded deep inside the belly around the stomach organs, visible only by CT or MRI imaging. This fat puts people at the same health risks as someone with more obvious big girth, researchers say.

 Rules to Start Removing the Fat

Dangers of Belly fat Rule #1- Throw out the junk food reduce sugar and saturated fat. To lose stomach fat you have to throw out the junk food. You are what you eat, so don’t eat junk.

Dangers of Belly fat Rule #2- Drink less alcohol to lose belly fat. Decrease alcohol consumption. If you drink a lot, you will accumulate fat around your waist.

Belly Fat Rule #3-- No more late night snacks – stop comfort eating The excess sugar will just turn into belly fat very quickly

Dangers of Belly fat Rule #4--Eat smaller Portion Sizes Most individuals don’t realize it but the amount and proportion they eat for meals is too large

Bottom Line

Losing belly fat is not just about looking better. It’s about being healthier and extending your life. The amount of belly fat is a good indication of your overall health. A combination of diet and exercise will go far toward decreasing belly fat. So take a closer look at your diet -- and get moving!  It will add years to your life.

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