What is Belly Fat?
Belly fat is the accumulation of abdominal fat that results in an increased waist size. Belly fat is also known as central adiposity or abdominal obesity.
What Causes Belly Fat?
As we age, our metabolism naturally slows down and total body fat gradually increases. Women in particular tend to gain a higher fat percentage than men as they get older. (Body fat distribution changes in menopause, causing more fat to be directed to your abdomen.)Heredity can also be a factor -- you might be genetically pre-disposed to gain weight in your middle more than other parts of your body. Hormones and hormonal changes, as well as stress, can also affect belly fat accumulation.
More: What is Abdominal Obesity?
Why is Belly Fat a Problem?
If you carry too much fat around your waist, you are more likely to develop health problems than if you carry fat mainly in your hips and thighs. Belly fat can significantly increase your chances of developing a number of serious health issues, including:- Heart disease
- Breast cancer
- Diabetes
- Gallbladder problems
- High blood pressure
Related Reading: Obesity-related Health Risks
How do I Know if I have Too Much Belly Fat?
Measuring your waist circumference is a simple way to tell if you are carrying too much abdominal fat. Women with a waist measurement of more than 35 inches or men with a waist measurement of more than 40 inches may have a higher disease risk. Talk to your doctor about your waist circumference and ask about corresponding risks at your next appointment.How To: Measure Your Waist
Sources
Centers for Disease Control. Healthy Weight: Assessing Your.../Waist Circumference. 4 Jan 2011.
Fahey, Thomas D. et al. Fit and Well for Life. 7th Edition. Columbus, OH: McGraw-Hill Publishing Company, 2007.
National Institutes of Health. Clinical Guidelines on the Identification, Evaluation, and Treatment of Overweight and Obesity in Adults: The Evidence Report. 1998; NIH Publication No. 98-4083.
