Belly Fat and Health Risks: What You Need to Know About Visceral Fat
Belly fat is more than a cosmetic concern; it can be a significant health risk, particularly when it involves visceral fat. Unlike subcutaneous fat, which lies just beneath the skin, visceral fat surrounds internal organs like the liver, pancreas, and intestines.
Visceral fat is stored deep in the abdominal cavity. It plays a role in protecting organs, but excessive amounts can lead to serious health problems.
– Visceral fat contributes to high blood pressure, increased LDL (bad cholesterol), and reduced HDL (good cholesterol), which raise the risk of heart disease and stroke.–
– The inflammatory compounds produced by visceral fat interfere with insulin function, increasing the likelihood of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.–
– Studies suggest a connection between visceral fat and cancers such as colorectal and breast cancer, due to its role in creating a pro-inflammatory environment.–
One of the main advantages of cardio is its ability to burn a substantial number of calories during the workout, making it a popular choice for fat loss.
– Visceral fat can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition where fat builds up in the liver, impairing its function.–
This is because cardio alone doesn’t build or preserve lean muscle mass, which plays a key role in increasing metabolism.