Abdominal fat, also known as visceral fat, is a highly relevant health issue. Beyond the physical appearance, its accumulation can have serious consequences, since it produces a large release of inflammatory molecules that generate insulin resistance, predisposition to diabetes, and the development of multiple heart and metabolic diseases, stroke, and cancer. Dr. Jesús Rocca, the endocrinologist of our clinic, provides us with valuable information regarding the importance of avoiding the accumulation of abdominal fat.

Why is it so harmful to accumulate abdominal fat?

The accumulation of fat in abdominal organs: liver, pancreas, mesentery, and intestines, which normally do not accumulate adipose tissue, is very harmful to the organism. When this occurs, a state of permanent inflammation is produced, which favors the appearance of different metabolic pathologies.

What factors should be considered to know if you are at an appropriate weight?

• Currently, the World Health Organization recommends not only controlling the body mass index but also the waist circumference. In South American countries, it is accepted that waist circumference in men should not exceed 98 centimeters, and 94 centimeters in women.
• If these measures are exceeded, there would be the so-called abdominal obesity, which should be evaluated immediately to keep us free of various metabolic diseases.

Our specialist recommends:

• To fight visceral fat, it is important to follow a balanced diet, avoid alcohol and tobacco consumption, and maintain a regular practice of aerobic exercise, at least 150 minutes per week.
• Increase the consumption of fiber and reduce to a minimum the amount of refined carbohydrates.

Remember:

Anyone with a higher waist circumference than indicated, a family history of diabetes, or who suffers from fatty liver or acanthosis nigricans (dark coloration of the neck), should consult with their endocrinologist to evaluate associated metabolic conditions, such as insulin resistance or diabetes mellitus.

Dr. Jesús Rocca
Endocrinologist of our Clínica Ricardo Palma