This graphic illustrates the two types of fat that make up “Belly Fat” - The subcutaneous fat (under the layers of the skin) and visceral fat (stored deep inside the abdomen, wrapped around the internal organs like the liver, stomach and the intestines). Subcutaneous fat is relatively benign whereas visceral fat is linked to chronic inflammation, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other metabolic disorders.
Efforts to lose “Belly Fat” - including losing visceral fat may not be so easy but the benefits to health and wellness are significant. However to reduce Belly Fat is not so simple. There is no magic bullet. If you want to lose some Belly Fat what can you do?
Eat minimally processed foods like lean proteins, colourful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, peas and beans, nuts and seeds instead of eating heavily refined foods.
Eat minimally processed oils like olive oil, avacado oil, flaxseed oil and sesame oil.
Learn to eat slowly and stop when you are satisfied.
Find a form of exercise that you like and do it regularly. There are many to choose from and make sure you are having fun and do it consistently.
Be kind to yourself.
Remember losing Belly Fat is journey. Remember the hare and the tortoise.
I recently recorded a “Bite-Sized”podcast that goes into more detail on the subject of Belly Fat. Just click the button below to listen to the podcast. Have fun.