In a study recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), researchers found that where a person stores fat in their body can determine whether or not they will develop diabetes in the future. Individuals with large amounts of belly fat are often more prone to developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease than individuals who carry excess weight only around their hips and thighs.
Are You an Apple or a Pear?
People who carry large amounts of weight around their belly are often apple-shaped. This kind of fat is called visceral fat and contributes to higher amounts of fat being distributed around vital organs, such as the liver and heart. Additionally, individuals who are apple-shaped tend to develop pre-diabetes or insulin resistance, which is a precursor to full blown type 2 diabetes. Individuals with visceral fat are also more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than those who are pear-shaped.
Fighting Belly Fat
Belly fat can be one of the most difficult types of fat to address. This can be especially true for women. Women have higher levels of estrogen, which contributes to development of fat around the belly. Additionally, belly fat cells do not melt away even with weight loss. Instead, they simply shrink.
Eating foods that are high in complex carbohydrates with a low glycemic index can help prevent belly fat from developing or increasing. Additionally, eating high fiber foods, such as apples, carrots and whole grain foods can assist in keeping weight levels under control.
Physical exercise that strengthen core muscles can also be extremely helpful in reducing or preventing belly fat. Pilates floor exercises and yoga are excellent methods for increasing flexibility and strength of abdominal muscles. Additionally, aerobic exercise, such as biking, swimming and walking, can improve cardiovascular health and reduce the likelihood of developing heart disease.
Are you and apple or a pear? What do you do to help maintain your weight? Let us know in the comment section.
– The Alternative Daily
