Why Is Belly Fat Dangerous?

The dangers of belly fat have been in the news as scientists have discovered health risks associated with carrying too much weight around the abdomen. Studies are ongoing, but some risks and solutions are already known.

Types

• Belly fat is also called visceral fat or intra-abdominal fat; it's different than the fat found on the arms or legs because it's packed around the organs in the abdomen and can release substances that cause health problems.

Effects

• The main health problems associated with visceral fat are insulin resistance or diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure, which can lead to more serious health problems down the road.

Theories/Speculation

• There are many theories about why belly fat is dangerous. One is the portal theory, which suggests that visceral fat releases fatty acids near the liver, which in turn affects the body's ability to regulate insulin and can create problems with blood pressure.

Prevention/Solution

• Regular aerobic exercise of 30 to 60 minutes per day can reduce visceral belly fat and reduce the chance of developing long-term illnesses.

Expert Insight

• Established medical guidelines suggest that men with waists larger than 40 inches and women with waists larger then 35 inches are at risk for developing health problems from visceral belly fat.