Why Does Belly Fat Affect The Heart?

Your weight, and specifically the distribution of your weight, is an important indicator for potential health risks you may be exposing yourself to. If you are carrying around surplus weight at your midsection, you could be at a higher risk for certain health problems. There are many factors involved in this vicious cycle and several reasons why abdominal fat can be particularly dangerous to your health.

Connection

Abdominal fat has a strong connection with heart disease. Increased fat stored in intra-abdominal deposits is associated with, and may cause, an increase in risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Central obesity is one of several factors leading to heart disease.

Significance

Abdominal fat, according to experts, is the core of a condition known as Metabolic Syndrome. A syndrome is "a group of signs and symptoms that occur together," according to the Merriam Webster dictionary. Central obesity does not usually occur alone, but in conjunction with other less benign conditions.

Progression

Other conditions associated with Metabolic Syndrome include insulin resistance, high blood pressure, impaired glucose tolerance and elevated triglycerides. These can lead to an increased risk of heart disease. Central obesity holds the key to this floodgate.

Prevalence

The typical American diet, full of processed foods and saturated fats, along with our ever-growing portion sizes, is a major contributor to Metabolic Syndrome. NetWellness estimates that approximately 25% of adults in America can be said to have Metabolic Syndrome.

Prevention/Solution

This vicious cycle can be broken, though. "The starting point for bringing weight under control, in general, and combating abdominal fat, in particular, is regular moderate-intensity physical activity---at least 30 minutes per day (and perhaps up to 60 minutes per day) to control weight," according to Harvard Health Publications. Consult with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program or diet to ensure a beneficial and safe plan that will work for you.