When it comes to body fat, the belly area is one of the most stubborn and difficult to lose. However, not all belly fat is created equal and holding onto some of it may actually offer some benefits.

Here are some reasons why hanging onto your belly fat can benefit you:.

1. Protection from Injuries

Belly fat can act as a cushion that protects your internal organs in case of an impact. This is why people who are naturally thin or have lost a lot of weight often have less padding around their abdomen, making them more susceptible to injuries.

While you don’t want to carry too much belly fat that can put excessive strain on your health and wellbeing, a little bit of cushioning can be good for you in terms of avoiding injuries.

2. Source of Energy When Food is Scarce

When you are in a calorie deficit and food resources are scarce, your body will turn to its fat stores to get the energy it needs to sustain basic functions and physical activity.

This is where your belly fat can come in handy as it is one of the easiest fat stores to access for energy.

While it is never recommended to go without food for extended periods, having extra belly fat on your body can help you survive in times when you are unable to eat for a prolonged period.

3. Improved Insulin Sensitivity

Belly fat, while not always considered healthy, is the primary storehouse of a type of fat called subcutaneous white adipose tissue.

This type of fat has been found to be significantly different from another type of fat known as visceral adipose tissue, which is associated with increasing the risk of diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

Studies have shown that subcutaneous fat is a better predictor of improved insulin sensitivity, which means that carrying some belly fat may actually improve your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels .

4. Better Hormonal Balance

Another benefit of subcutaneous fat is that it helps in maintaining hormonal balance in the body. Hormones play a significant role in regulating the body’s metabolic rate, energy level, and overall health.

When you lose too much weight and fat from your body, especially visceral fat, it can lead to hormonal imbalances and adversely affect your health. Keeping some belly fat can help you maintain the balance of hormones in your body.

5. Reduced Risk of Osteoporosis

As you age, your bones can become weaker, and you may be more prone to bone fractures. However, carrying some extra weight, including belly fat, can help you reduce the risk of osteoporosis and maintain your bone health.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that postmenopausal women who had a higher body mass index (BMI) were less likely to experience osteoporosis than those who had a lower BMI.

The study also suggested that the fat cells in the belly area may release hormones that help in the growth of bone tissue.

6. Improved Brain Function

Your brain needs a certain amount of fat to function correctly. The good news is that belly fat contains a lot of this essential fat, which is necessary for healthy brain functioning.

In fact, studies have suggested that people with higher amounts of subcutaneous fat in the belly area have better cognitive function and memory retention, as opposed to those who have less belly fat.

While more research is needed in this area, it’s an excellent reason to embrace your belly fat.

7. Easier Weight Maintenance

One of the reasons why losing belly fat can be so challenging is that the body tends to want to hold onto it. However, once you’ve lost it, keeping it off can be just as challenging.

By carrying some belly fat, you may have an easier time controlling your weight, as your body is comfortable with the amount of fat it is carrying in this area.

You don’t have to try as hard to maintain your weight, giving you more time and energy to focus on other things.

8. Improved Sleep Quality

Many people don’t realize that fat cells secrete hormones that regulate hunger, mood, and, most importantly, sleep.

These hormones play a significant role in controlling your circadian rhythm, which ensures that your body is adequately prepared to sleep and wake up.

Belly fat contains a lot of these hormones, which can help regulate your sleep quality and ensure that you get a good night’s rest.

9. Reduced Risk of Depression

Depression is a severe illness that affects millions of people worldwide. Recent studies have suggested that belly fat may offer some protection against depression, especially in women.

One study found that women who had a higher BMI and carried more belly fat were less likely to experience symptoms of depression than women who had a lower BMI and less belly fat.

This study suggests that belly fat may play a significant role in stabilizing mood and preventing depression.

10. A Positive Body Image

Perhaps the most significant benefit of hanging on to your belly fat is the improved body image and self-confidence you’ll gain, knowing that you have a healthy balance of fat on your body.

In a society that values thinness above all else, it can be challenging to love your body, especially if you’re carrying extra weight.

However, accepting and embracing your body for what it is can have a profound positive impact on your mental health and wellbeing.

While losing belly fat may be a priority for some people, it’s essential to recognize that every body is different, and carrying some weight in the belly area can provide many benefits.

Embrace your body for what it is, and always prioritize your health and wellbeing above all else.