Top 5 reasons for belly fat

Posted by Lana on May 4, 2010 in Exercise, Featured | 0 comments

As a strength and conditioning specialist, I hear this question over and over again, which is first preceded by the telling of how the person can’t understand why their belly is bulging….even after a low fat diet. I am compelled to list the top five reasons for belly fat because there are so many books, diets, and just plain false information out there. I want to emphasize the basics. Without further ado, and in no particular order:

1. Genetics

Thanks to mom, dad, grandparents, and the line of folks unbeknownst to you –your body accumulates fat set by your unique genetics. If you have a short waist with long legs, you are more likely to show more body fat in the waist region. On the other hand, if you have a long torso with short legs, you have an advantage. You are more likely to store fat in the hips and legs, and keep a smaller waist/flatter tummy.

2. Lack of Sleep

Some people boast of only needing four to six hours of sleep per night. These people work hard, play hard, and probably eat unhealthy as well. Everyone needs 7-8, if not 9 hours of sleep per night. This goes for the senior population as well. Without proper sleep, our bodies are unable to recharge, and heal from the day’s activities. This accounts for an increase in the circulation of the stress hormone Cortisol. Cortisol acts as a defender of our bodies in times of stress. The brain tells Cortisol to protect the internal organs against harm, so guess what happens? The body stores fat in the belly region.

3. Stress

This factor coincides with number 2 above. Stress is inevitable; it’s what keeps us motivated to live, work, survive. Yet, unhealthy amounts of stress puts us in “fight or flight” mode, thus keeping Cortisol high in our systems, again pooling fat into the abdominal region.

4. Unhealthy Diet

Eating a diet high in unhealthy, saturated fats is a big no no. Forgo the burgers, and fries, please. Consuming high amounts of sugar is also a main cause of belly fat. Skip the sodas and candy.

5. Sedentary Lifestyle

This is the big one. Even if your diet isn’t up to par, exercise can knock out a lot of the previously mentioned factors. Getting at least four to five days a week of cardiovascular and strength training exercise will reduce stress, help you sleep better, burn calories, and improve your body shape.

Now…what are you waiting for? Stop buying books and diet products, and get moving! To learn more about how to reverse these to five reasons, read my next post -How to banish belly fat!