Have you come across the term visceral fat? You’ve likely heard it mentioned. It refers to the unwanted belly fat that forms deep inside the abdomen. This type of fat is considered particularly dangerous because it surrounds your vital internal organs, including the liver and intestines. It’s often referred to as active fat because it directly influences how hormones function within the body.
Why Visceral Fat Is a Concern
Visceral fat can pose a number of health risks. If you have more fat stored than your body requires, especially around the liver, heart, kidneys, pancreas, and intestines, your body becomes inflamed. This kind of fat stores inflammatory white blood cells, which is why belly fat has been linked to cognitive decline, arthritis, diabetes, and more.
The inflammatory substances generated by excess fat known as cytokines, are major contributors to heart disease and other inflammatory conditions. When the body is inflamed, the liver struggles to process cholesterol and toxins effectively, leading to plaque build-up in the arteries. Visceral fat is also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease markers such as:
- High triglycerides
- Raised blood pressure
- Elevated cholesterol levels
In addition, visceral fat plays a significant role in insulin resistance, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Refer to the image below to know more:
Lifestyle Factors That Influence Visceral Fat
While regular exercise, stress management, and a balanced diet are essential to keeping visceral fat in check, how you cook your meals also matters.
Healthier Cooking Methods:
✔️ Boiling
✔️ Steaming
✔️ Baking
✔️ Grilling
These methods help reduce excess fat in meals while preserving nutrients.
Foods That Encourage Belly Fat:
❌ Trans fats (found in some meats, dairy, deep-fried and processed foods)
❌ Sugary drinks like sodas
❌ Confectionery, baked goods, and other foods sweetened with fructose
Managing visceral fat is not just about aesthetics — it’s about protecting your long-term health. Small, sustainable changes to your eating habits, cooking style, and daily routine can go a long way in reducing this harmful fat.
To understand more about visceral fat and how to lose it effectively, connect with your GOQii Coach by subscribing to Personalised Health Coaching here. For more articles on weight loss, check out Healthy Reads.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health. Images shown are for representation purposes only and may not depict the exact recommendations or outcomes.
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