Belly fat, also known as visceral fat, is a type of fat that accumulates around the abdomen, particularly around internal organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines.
It is often seen as more dangerous than other types of fat because it has been linked to various health risks, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
Visceral fat is stored deeper in the abdomen and is more metabolically active, meaning it releases inflammatory chemicals known as cytokines.
These cytokines contribute to insulin resistance, which impairs the body’s ability to use sugar for energy, making it harder to burn fat.
Hormones also play a significant role in belly fat. Cortisol, known as the "stress hormone," can increase fat storage around the belly when produced in excess, especially during periods of stress.
High cortisol levels promote fat accumulation by triggering the body’s "fight or flight" response, leading to more belly fat storage.
Moreover, as people age, hormonal changes, particularly a decline in estrogen for women and testosterone for men, can shift fat storage patterns, making it easier to accumulate fat around the abdomen.
Hormones also play a significant role in the distribution of body fat. As people age, hormonal changes, especially in women during menopause, can lead to an increase in belly fat.
The decrease in estrogen levels during menopause has been associated with an increase in visceral fat storage in the abdominal area.