Why is belly fat reduction important in today’s lifestyle?
Belly fat or abdominal fat has become a major concern for many people across the globe. Why is this so? The answer lies in the fact that the awareness levels regarding abdominal fat have increased and it has become a common fact that belly fat is responsible for many health issues.
The increase in belly fat in a large portion of the populace – men and women of all ages as well as children – can be attributed to today’s lifestyle. While artificial, chemically treated and genetically modified foods have become the norm of the day, people also lead sedentary and sluggish lives sitting for long hours at one place. This combination of wrong diet and inactivity invariably causes fat build up in the midsection.
But are there any specific reasons to prevent fat depositing in the abdominal area? According to medical opinion, there is.
Here is a look at some of the belly fat-related health conditions:
Hormonal Imbalance – Fat is instrumental in producing certain critical hormones like leptin (relating to appetite), adiponectin (related to insulin response of cells) etc. in our bodies. When there is excess fat, the hormone production and functions are completely disrupted and cause the internal organs to perform incorrect or imperfect actions.
Cardio vascular diseases – Excessive visceral fat (which is the fat found in between the abdominal organs like liver, gallbladder, pancreas etc.) can send out immune system chemicals known as cytokines and this can trigger the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Malfunctioning of the liver – Belly fat is located near the portal vein, the carrier of blood from the intestinal area to the liver. This fat releases free fatty acids and other substances which reach the liver through the portal vein, negatively impacting blood lipid production. In other words, more abdominal fat means a malfunctioning liver which equals increased LDL (bad cholesterol) and reduced HDL (good cholesterol).
Insulin resistance – Insulin is a hormone that is needed for the proper utilization of glucose in the blood as well as for other body functions. Abdominal fat causes insulin resistance. So the body cells do not react normally to optimal levels of this hormone causing more insulin secretion. Higher levels of insulin can lead to hypertension and increase type 2 diabetes risk.
Metabolic syndrome –
High blood glucose levels, elevated blood pressure, high insulin and undesirable cholesterol levels – caused by excessive fat deposits in the belly region – are referred to in total as metabolic syndrome. It increases the risk of stroke as well as heart related diseases.
Other problems owing to belly fat accumulation –
Some forms of cancer can also be traced to the abnormal accumulation of fat in the tummy area. Besides, people with large bellies have problems in performing even day-to-day chores with ease. They might also suffer from reduced confidence, stress and poor self esteem.
The best way to a healthy and happy life is to fight belly fat and get rid of it. Combating belly fat is easier before it gets out of hand and demands vigorous steps. Regular exercise and sensible diet options alone can bring about a marked and positive change.
Crystal loves to blog on weight loss tips. To know about her updates please visit her blog how to lose belly fat
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