Belly Fat and Men’s Health

June is Men’s Health Month, a time to raise awareness about health issues that specifically affect men and to encourage them to prioritize their health.

Belly fat, also known as VISCERAL FAT, accumulates around men’s stomach blocking important organs, including liver and intestines. Unlike fat stored under the skin that you can pinch(SUBCUTANEOUS FAT), visceral fat is metabolically active, releasing hormones and inflammatory chemicals that can disrupt how the body uses insulin and regulate blood pressure.

Why is Belly Fat a Concern for Men?

Men are more prone to storing fat around the belly compared to women due to hormonal differences, particularly the declining levels of testosterone as they age. Visceral fat tend to put men at higher risks of health problems, such as;

• Hearth Disease: Belly fat is linked to increased bad cholesterol (LDL) and decreased good cholesterol (HDL), which can lead to heart attacks and strokes due to clogged arteries.
• Hormonal Imbalance: Visceral fat disrupts testosterone production, leading to issues like low libido, erectile dysfunction, and mood swings.
• Certain Cancers: Research has it that, there is a connection between belly fat and an increased risk of colon, prostrate, and pancreatic cancers.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Visceral fat disrupts insulin sensitivity, making it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar levels.

Taking Charge of Belly Fat

The good news is that visceral fat responds to the same diet and exercise strategies that can help get rid of other general body fat, with visible effect on belly fat too.

Here are some actionable tips:

• Healthy Diet: Focus on plant based foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Alongside lean sources of protein like fish and low-fat diary products.
• Moderate Portion Sizes: At home, cut down your portion sizes. In restaurants, share meals or eat half and take the rest home.
• Replace Sugary Drinks: Drink water or other beverages without sugar instead.
• Get Active: For most healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human Services recommends moderate aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, for at least 150 minutes a week or vigorous aerobic activity such as jogging, for at least 75 minutes a week. Above all, losing belly fat takes effort and patience. To lose extra fat and keep it from coming back, aim for slow and steady weight loss. You can as well ask your health care provider for help getting started and staying on track.