Many men are afflicted with a pot belly that's not only large, but uncommonly hard. This hardness is due to an abundance of fat under the abdominal muscles, otherwise known as visceral fat. Men are particularly vulnerable to visceral abdominal fat. While this type of belly may lack a loose, flabby appearance, visceral fat is particularly unhealthy, raising your risk of heart disease and diabetes, according to the June 2007 issue of "Critical Pathways in Cardiology." To avoid accumulation of visceral belly fat, be aware of the common causes.
Excess Calories
The most direct cause of visceral body fat accumulation in men is the over-consumption of calories, warns the American Council on Exercise. While the types of food you consume do play a role in how you store body fat, total calories are the most important factor.
Inactivity
A sedentary lifestyle is a frequent contributor to visceral belly fat. The lack of exercise limits the amount of calories you burn, making it easier to gain weight. A sedentary lifestyle also causes muscle wasting, which further slows your metabolism. To stimulate your metabolism and burn fat, the American Council on Exercise recommends daily walks lasting at least 30 minutes. Strength training will also boost your metabolism and control belly fat.
Sugar Intake
Sugar intake, especially high fructose corn syrup, increases insulin production which can speed the accumulation of visceral belly fat. A recent Princeton University study revealed that rats, when fed a diet high in high fructose corn syrup, gained significantly more abdominal fat than rats fed an equivalent amount of ordinary table sugar. Avoid sugar- sweetened soft drinks and candy to limit your intake of high fructose corn syrup.
Abdominal Musculature
In some cases, as with many strength athletes, over-development of the abdominal muscles can give the midsection a hard, protruding appearance. In many cases, this abdominal development often accompanies visceral fat accumulation from the high calorie meals eaten by many weight lifters. Some athletes will even display defined abdominals on top of a large, round belly.
Diet Options
A report in the July 2, 2012 "AARP Bulletin" states that losing just 5 to 10 percent of your body weight can improve your health by reducing high levels of insulin and estrogen. Partner with your doctor to choose a healthy diet plan that works for you and any medication you may be taking. The April 29, 2011 issue of "Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity" reports that low-carb diets are particularly successful in reducing visceral belly fat. -----livestrong.com
Written by NEWSTRAWL ONLINE UPDATE
Sodiq Oyeleke is a Media, Human Resources, Project Management and Public Relations Practitioner
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