What Is Belly Fat? (Belly Fat Definition)

Healthful Vitality | 02/08/2023 | What Is Belly Fat? (Belly Fat Definition)

What Is Belly Fat?

Belly fat, also known as abdominal or visceral fat, is the fat that accumulates around the midsection of the body. Unlike subcutaneous fat, located just beneath the skin and can be felt when pinched, belly fat is stored deeper within the abdomen, surrounding the internal organs.

Belly fat is considered a health risk because of its close proximity to the vital organs in the body. The accumulation of excess belly fat relates to several health issues, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain forms of cancer.

Types of belly fat

There are two types of belly fat: subcutaneous fat and visceral fat. Subcutaneous fat is the fat that can be felt when pinched and is stored just beneath the skin. Conversely, visceral fat is stored deeper within the abdomen and surrounds the internal organs.

Belly fat can be measured using various methods, including body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and skinfold thickness measurements. A waist circumference measurement more significant than 40 inches in men and 35 inches in women is generally considered to indicate a high amount of belly fat.

The accumulation of belly fat can be due to various factors, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and stress. For example, a diet high in processed foods, sugar, and saturated fat can contribute to the accumulation of belly fat, as can a sedentary lifestyle and chronic stress.

The good news is that belly fat is a modifiable risk factor and can be reduced through diet and exercise. A diet low in processed foods and high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats can help reduce belly fat, as can regular physical activity and stress management techniques.

Conclusion

In conclusion, belly fat is a serious health concern and can contribute to many chronic diseases. However, understanding the factors contributing to the accumulation of belly fat and adopting a comprehensive approach to weight loss, including diet and exercise, can help reduce belly fat and improve overall health.

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