Is belly fat dangerous for heart health?Every year on World Obesity Day, a question arises again: Is weight alone the real problem? For a long time, body weight and BMI were considered most important to measure people’s health. But now many researches show that more important than the amount of fat in the body is where it is deposited. The weighing machine cannot tell whether there is more muscle or fat in the body and it cannot also show whether fat is accumulated around the internal organs or not.
What is belly fat?
Fat accumulating around the abdomen, commonly known as belly fat, can increase the risk of heart diseases. This happens even in people whose weight appears normal. Actually, not every type of fat in the body behaves the same. Fat accumulated around the hips and thighs is considered less harmful, but fat accumulated in the inner part of the stomach, around the liver, pancreas and intestines can be more dangerous for the body.
What is the problem?
This internal fat releases chemicals that increase inflammation in the body, affects the way insulin works, increases blood pressure and can disturb the balance of cholesterol. Dr Varun Bansal told TOI that when it comes to heart health, it is not just the weight but the distribution of fat in the body that is more important. Increasing fat, especially around the abdomen, can increase the risk of heart attack and coronary artery disease.
What is the problem in India?
In India this problem is considered more serious. According to the INDIAB study of the Indian Council of Medical Research, despite being of normal weight, many Indians were found to have increased waist circumference, as well as high blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure. This condition is called normal weight obesity or metabolic obesity. That means a person may look thin, but the fat accumulated inside the stomach can become a threat to the heart.
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According to experts, waist circumference is considered an important indicator for Indians. Waist should be less than 90 centimeters in men and less than 80 centimeters in women. It is also very easy to measure, it can be measured by placing a tape around the navel while standing straight and exhaling normally.
How can we reduce this?
Crash diet is not always the right solution to reduce belly fat, because it can also lead to loss of muscles. Instead, regular exercise, especially strength training, eating adequate protein, less processed carbohydrates, adequate sleep and controlling stress are considered more effective methods.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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