Fat Bellies: Nothing Jolly About It!

Submitted by Mary Shenoo on Mon, 08/01/2011 - 1:51pm

Do you find yourself surprised when trying on your bathing suit for the summer? How about frustrated with the extra pounds you acquired this last winter? Aside from these cosmetic disappointments, belly fat poses a major risk to your health. Men must be especially vigilant since they are more likely to develop more fat around the waist. There is no single cause of belly fat. Genetics, diet, age, and lifestyle can all play a role.  Belly fat increases an individual’s risk of acquiring:  

  • Heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Stroke
  • Some forms of cancer
  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Insulin resistance
  • High triglycerides
  • Low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Sleep apnea

 Now, you may be wondering, how much belly fat is too much? One simple way to estimate whether you are at risk is to measure your waist. A man is at high-risk if his waist measurement is 40 inches (102 centimeters) or greater. A woman with a waist measurement of 35 inches (88 centimeters) or greater is at high risk. 

So, you are hopefully thinking, “What can I do to banish this belly fat?”Changing dietary habits can help by reading labels, reducing saturated fats, increasing the amount of fruits and veggies you eat, and controlling and reducing your portions.

Here are some foods that help fight fat!

  • Avocados
  • Bananas
  • Yogurt
  • Berries
  • Chocolate Skim Milk
  • Green Tea
  • Citrus
  • Whole Grains 

When losing weight, you’re much more likely to lose it in your midsection.  A well balanced weight loss program will melt body fat, including belly fat. The best way to decrease your waist size is through healthy eating and regular exercise.  You can do it!

 

Mary Shenoo, RN, BSN, CCM,CWC

Ms. Shenoo joined Managed Care Concepts in 1993 as a Case Manager and Utilization Review Nurse Supervisor. In 1996, she was promoted to Executive Director. Her responsibilities now include: Oversight and Program Development for all departments. She serves as the liaison to the Medical Director, is the Organ Transplant Coordinator, and is a participating member of the MCC, Inc. Quality Management Committee.