Health Zone: Belly Fat Leads To Heart Diseases; 6 Ways to Burn Your Belly Fat Fast

The belly is the part of the body from which most people would want to lose fat; but, sadly, it is often the last area to give way in the race to reduce body weight. However, it is not something you can wave aside.

Belly fat can lead to serious health problems. Studies and research have proved that excess fat in the abdominal area could predispose one to terminal diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

It may also prove more difficult to get rid of the belly as you grow older. Consultant Cardiologist, Dr. Segun Adeoti, says one should not give up trying, as there is more to be gained in terms of longevity and a health life.

Adeoti, who notes that excess belly fat is more dangerous than excess fat around the hips and thighs, warns that carrying excess fat around the belly may also dispose one to some forms of cancer.

Adeoti states, “Studies on belly fat confirm that visceral fat – the type that gathers around internal organs in the stomach – is far more dangerous than having a high blood pressure which can be managed.

“People with high or normal weight who have big bellies have a 50 per cent risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, compared with people who are overweight but have no belly fat.

“Belly fat puts unnecessary pressure on blood vessels around the area; it disrupts blood circulation, it increases the volume of cholesterol flowing in the blood, increasing one’s risk for heart attacks.”

How do you get rid of belly fat?

1. Eat a healthy diet: Emphasise plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and choose lean sources of protein and low-fat dairy products.

2. Get more sleep: Getting enough sleep is very important if one is looking to beat the bulge. Studies have shown that people who don’t get the recommended eight hours of sleep eat more than those who do get the recommended eight hours sleep.

3. Exercise daily: 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 activities, such as jogging, for at least 75 minutes a week.

4. Cut out alcohol: Alcohol is a toxin, experts warn. Just as eating toxic foods will lead to poor health, regular consumption of alcohol will also lead to weight gain.

5.Get hydrated: Water is essential in the battle to beat the belly bulge. For a start, 75 per cent of your body is made up of water. That fact alone should make one realise the need to keep drinking more water. If you are not drinking enough water, it will greatly affect your body.

6. Limit carbohydrate: You will probably have heard people say that carbohydrates make people fat. This is true, experts say; as carbohydrates do lead to weight gain due to the effect they have on the hormones. However, you still need carbs in your diet for energy; so, don’t cut them out completely.