Not All Body Fat Is Created Equal

During middle age, testosterone levels tend to drop, which can lead to an increase of fat cells in the abdominal area. Fortunately, men more easily build lean muscles that can burn more calories even when they are at rest.

Having some fat on your body is not a bad thing but not all body fat is the created equal. It’s important to distinguish between visceral fat and subcutaneous fat. Visceral fat is dangerous internal fat located deep within the abdominal cavity.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that an average adult incorporate 2 ½ hours weekly of moderate aerobic (cardio) exercises. In addition for men and women wanting to shed fat, strength training will increase muscle mass to boost fat burn.

Eat the Right Amount of the Right Foods

Shedding pounds and keeping the weight off is difficult unless you make permanent change in your dietary habits and lifestyle. Eating the right amount of the right foods can be key. Listed below are some helpful strategies to get you started:

Eat Plenty of Protein – Dietary patterns that are higher in protein may help promote fat loss. Studies found men who followed a high protein diet had a smaller waistline, so try to consume extra lean protein.

Consume More Healthy Fats – Fat takes longer for your body to digest than carbohydrates and protein. Consuming healthy fats in moderation can trigger feelings of fullness to prevent overeating.

Increase Cardio Exercise – Aerobic exercise or cardiovascular training is an effective way to improve your health and burn calories, which can lead to a reduction in your belly bulge.

Limit Intake of Sugar – Studies show that 80 percent of people who stopped eating sugar (and other unhealthy foods) found that their mental health greatly improved with decrease in depression and anxiety with better mental focus.

Select Healthy Beverages – To efficiently lose belly fat, it is best to completely avoid sugar-sweetened beverages such as soft drinks, sweetened tea, and sugary alcoholic drink mixes.

Visit MRC Tigard to Learn About a Personalized Approach

Although there is no way to spot burn fat on the upper abdominals, belly fat will respond to the same strategies that help lower total body fat where you consume less energy every day than your body needs for fuel. Visceral fat is more common in men; and this harder fat that is found deeper inside the stomach and under the abdominal muscles and around vital organs can have a negative impact on both sexes.

In a recent study reported by Medical News Today, an increase in exercise can reverse a man’s amount of visceral fat deposited in his abdominal cavity, while a moderate approach to exercise can help visceral fat deposits from mounting up. The team at MRC is dedicated to helping men who need to shed unwanted weight gain and reduce an unsightly belly bulge.

To learn more about our personalized approach to eating better, improving your appearance, and living a healthier life, contact MRC Tigard for a free consultation.