Facts on Stomach Weight
Stomach weight can be the most difficult weight challenge for many people trying to improve their health through diet and exercise. If knowledge is power and patience is a virtue, then combating stomach fat can put both of those principals to the test. Yet, with a clear understanding of the fundamental causes, health risks and specific methods designed to help tackle this troublesome area, information can be your first important step in meeting this challenge.
Expert Insight
According to the website of the American Heart Assocation, stomach fat can be a "strong, independent risk factor for heart disease." You can read the entire article, which explains the stomach-to-hip ratio and how it also figures into the connection with heart disease at their website, entitled, "Abdominal fat distribution predicts heart disease."
Effects
The distribution of fat has been found to be more signifant than overall weight. Fat stored in the abdominal region is called visceral fat, which is fat deposited around abdominal organs. It places stress and added risk to these organs. In addition to heart disease, related complications can include diabetes and high blood pressure.
Theories/Speculation
There are a number of theories in the diet and weight loss industry about stomach weight. There are any number of ads and Info-mercials offering a variety of exercise programs, equipment and supplements to target stomach fat, most promising miracle results These theories can provide varying results, but rarely incorporate the needed balance of nutritional and medical advice. A supplement or piece of exercise equipment should never be substituted for a complete physical and individualized regimen given by your doctor.
Considerations
Attempts to lose stomach weight can be very frustrating, leading people to believe it is "just them." That frustration can often be the reason for giving up. But visceral fat is very different, as it is harder for everyone to lose. So, before you give up, realize that you are dealing with the most stubborn area of fat and that patience will be a part of any winning program.
Prevention/Solution
In a U.S. News and World Report article from 2007, Cris Slentz, an exercise physiologist at Duke University Medical Center, discusses how 30 minute walks can be key to keeping stomach fat off, and how more strenuous exercise will be needed to get it off. According to Slentz, with regular exericse, visceral fat will be the first to go.
Benefits
Exercise and regular 30-minute walks can greatly reduce the amount of stomach weight you're carrying and the benefits can range from lowering cholesterol and blood pressure to more rested sleep and an increase in sex drive. Equally important to exercise are regular checkups with your doctor to monitor changes in your overall health.
