Abdominal fat

Abdominal fat or belly fat refers to the accumulation of adipose tissue (fat) in the abdomen region. The two types of abdominal fat are subcutaneous fat and visceral fat. Subcutaneous fat is located beneath the skin, while visceral fat is located within the abdominal cavity, surrounding the internal organs.

Types of Abdominal Fat

Subcutaneous Fat

Subcutaneous fat is the layer of fat that is found directly under the skin. It serves as an energy reserve and also provides insulation and cushioning for the body.

Visceral Fat

Visceral fat, also known as intra-abdominal fat, is located within the abdominal cavity, surrounding the internal organs. It is metabolically active and has been linked to a number of health problems, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

Health Risks

Excessive abdominal fat has been associated with a higher risk of several health problems, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and certain types of cancer. It is also linked to metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

Measurement

The most common method of measuring abdominal fat is waist circumference, which can be done using a simple tape measure. Other methods include body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio, and imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Reduction

Abdominal fat can be reduced through a combination of diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes. A diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber, along with regular physical activity, can help reduce abdominal fat.