We all know that having excess fat is not good for our health, but did you know that the location of the fat also matters? According to the latest research, having thick belly fat can lead to death.

The Risks of Thick Belly Fat

Visceral fat, also known as belly fat, is located deep inside the abdominal cavity and surrounds our internal organs. It is different from subcutaneous fat, which is the fat located just under the skin.

Visceral fat is more dangerous than subcutaneous fat as it produces hormones and chemicals that can lead to inflammation, insulin resistance, and other health problems.

Thick belly fat has been linked to an increased risk of the following health conditions:.

Heart disease
Stroke
Type 2 diabetes
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Metabolic syndrome
Cancer

Moreover, research has found that individuals with thick belly fat are at higher risk of death than those with other body shapes, including those with a higher BMI but with less belly fat.

Why Belly Fat Can Be So Dangerous?

Belly fat, specifically visceral fat, produces inflammatory cytokines, hormones, and chemicals that interfere with the body’s metabolic processes.

These changes can lead to a variety of health problems, including insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Moreover, belly fat can increase the production of certain enzymes that are linked to cancer.

Further, thick belly fat can lead to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition where excess fat is stored in the liver.

NAFLD can cause liver inflammation, scarring, and damage, which can ultimately lead to liver failure and death.

How to Measure Belly Fat?

The best way to measure belly fat is to measure your waist circumference. Having a waist circumference of more than 35 inches (88 cm) for women or 40 inches (102 cm) for men indicates the presence of belly fat and an increased risk of health problems.

Another way to measure belly fat is to use the body mass index (BMI), which measures your body fat based on your height and weight. However, BMI is not a direct measure of belly fat and may not be an accurate indicator of health risks.

How to Reduce Belly Fat?

The good news is that belly fat can be reduced through a combination of healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes. Here are some tips to reduce belly fat:.

Eat a balanced diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein
Avoid sugary drinks, processed foods, and foods high in saturated and trans fats
Engage in regular physical activity, including cardio and strength training exercises
Reduce stress and get enough sleep
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption

If you have difficulty losing belly fat, consider consulting a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian who can provide personalized advice and support.

The Bottom Line

Belly fat is more than just a cosmetic concern. Research has shown that having thick belly fat can lead to an increased risk of various health problems and death.

The good news is that you can reduce belly fat through a healthy lifestyle that includes balanced eating habits, regular exercise, and stress reduction. If you have concerns about your belly fat or other health issues, consult a healthcare professional.