Visceral Fat: Why Is It Dangerous?

Have you ever wondered about the fat that wraps around your internal organs? You might have heard of visceral fat, often referred to as the dangerous or toxic fat. Unlike the fat that sits just beneath your skin, visceral fat is much more than a simple layer of padding. It can have serious implications for your health. But what exactly is visceral fat, and why is it considered so hazardous?

Visceral fat is a type of body fat that’s stored within the abdominal cavity. It surrounds several vital organs, including the liver, pancreas, and intestines. This fat is different from subcutaneous fat, which is found just under the skin. Visceral fat is more metabolically active, meaning it can have a greater impact on your health.

While subcutaneous fat lies beneath the skin and can be pinched, visceral fat is hidden deeper inside the body. This makes it less noticeable but more dangerous. Visceral fat is more likely to produce inflammatory markers and hormones that can interfere with the body’s normal functioning. Unlike subcutaneous fat, which serves as an energy reserve and insulates the body, visceral fat is closely linked to various health problems.

A certain amount of visceral fat is normal and necessary for protecting your organs. However, an excess can lead to health issues. Measuring visceral fat accurately often requires medical imaging techniques like CT scans or MRIs, but waist circumference can be a practical indicator.

Generally, a waist measurement of more than 35 inches for women and 40 inches for men suggests an unhealthy amount of visceral fat.

Visceral fat is strongly linked to cardiovascular diseases. It releases substances that can cause inflammation and contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to conditions like heart attacks and strokes.

This type of fat affects how the body processes insulin. It can lead to insulin resistance, where the body’s cells don’t respond effectively to insulin, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Visceral fat produces cytokines, proteins that can cause inflammation. Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for many diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders.

Excess visceral fat can lead to fatty liver disease, where fat builds up in the liver. This can impair liver function and lead to serious conditions like liver cirrhosis or liver failure.

Visceral fat can disrupt the balance of hormones in the body. It can affect cortisol levels, which are linked to stress, and can also interfere with hormones that regulate appetite, leading to overeating and further weight gain.

1. Exercise! And exercise again

Engage in both aerobic exercises, like walking or running, and strength training to help reduce visceral fat.

2. Eat healthy – it works

Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid sugary drinks and high-fat foods.

3. Try to reduce stress

High stress levels can increase cortisol, which can contribute to visceral fat accumulation. Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help manage stress.

4. Get enough sleep

Poor sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate appetite and fat storage. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.

5. Put away alcohol drinks

Excessive alcohol intake can contribute to fat buildup around the organs. Moderation is key.

Hungry for knowledge? Here is more

In this short and informative video, Dr. Berg, the best-selling author and YouTube educator, talks about the dangers of visceral fat and its connection to high levels of insulin.

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