Aside from detracting from your appearance, large amounts of belly fat might be decreasing levels of healthy hormones, increasing the risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. Surrounding your intestines and other abdominal organs, the omentum is a membrane that contains a mesh of fat to support and protect your organs. High levels of fat in the omentum reduce levels of the hormone adiponectin, which regulates glucose and fat metabolism, as well as insulin sensitivity and metabolic rate.
Belly Fat
Belly fat can reside in three places: below the skin as subcutaneous fat, within muscles or in the omentum within the abdominal cavity. Fat in the omenum has the greatest negative impact on health. If you have a large amount of omentum fat, you will be unable to suck in your abdominal wall and will have difficulty breathing when bent over due to the increased pressure on your diaphragm.
Adiponectin
The hormone adiponectin is exclusively produced by fat cells. The amount of adiponectin decreases with the increase in body fat percentage, especially the amount of fat in the omentum. Adiponectin decreases the amount of glucose produced by your body, increases glucose uptake by cells and increases the use of fat as fuel. Adiponectin also regulates the function of blood vessel tone, increases insulin sensitivity, promotes weight loss and increases the use of energy by your body. Adiponectin levels increase significantly with weight loss.
Type 2 Diabetes Risk
A high level of omentum fat raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Although the mechanism of development of type 2 diabetes is not known, it results in the resistance of cells to insulin and the rise of glucose levels in the blood. It is thought that the decrease in adiponectin levels with higher body fat prevents the body from using insulin effectively.
Reducing Omentum Fat
A 2010 study in the journal "Gastroenterology" found that surgical removal of omentum fat does not improve insulin sensitivity and other disease risk factors. Lowering overall body fat levels with a healthier diet and exercise might be the best way to reduce omentum fat and improve adiponectin levels. Increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables and avoiding processed foods are great ways to lose belly fat. In addition, drink plenty of water and exercise regularly. Work with your doctor and other fitness professionals to find a long-term diet and exercise plan suited for your individual condition.
References
- "European Journal of Endocrinology"; "Role of the Novel Adipocyte-Derived Hormone Adiponectin in Human Disease"; Diez and Iglesias; 2003
- "Gastroenterology"; "Surgical Removal of Omental Fat Does Not Improve Insulin Sensitivity and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Obese Adults"; Fabbrini et al. 2010
- Pubmed Health: Type 2 Diabetes
