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A fairly ordinary condition that is found mostly in women is belly fat. It may be caused by hereditary or fluctuating hormones in the individual. There are many unhealthy affects that can be experienced with this excess fat and are noted as diabetes, certain types of cancers, and cardiovascular disease. These are just some to name a few. Knowing how to lose belly fat can help prevent not only the added weight, but the adverse health effects as well.

As you age, your metabolism slows down and this causes you to gain weight. The number one contributor to this is menopause. Fat deposits seem to distribute to the belly area from the legs, hips, and arms. While it affects mostly women, men are also affected by this issue.

During menopause, hormones constantly change. When this happens, they do not break up the fat deposits as well and it adds up in the abdominal region. Aside from this, a stagnant active lifestyle and loss of exercise is usually the major factor.

Excessive weight in the abdominal area is a bigger problem than just having a few extra pounds or an ego crusher. It is actually unhealthier than if it were located on other parts of the body. There are several health risks to the individual if left untreated. These include breast cancer, hypertension, colorectal cancer, problems with the gallbladder, and diabetes. There is also a greater risk for heart disease and problems with the cardiovascular system.

There are ways to determine if this issue is affecting you. To find out, simply measure yourself from waist to hip. A body mass index calculation can provide you with results although for menopausal women, this may not always be accurate. To measure, circle a tape measure around your waist. This should be done at your belly button. Do not hold your breath or try to suck in. If the results are thirty five inches or more, you should try to lose a few pounds as this size is noted as being unhealthy. Studies have shown that no matter what your weight might be, a person who has a measurement of thirty three inches or more is considered to be at risk.

Visceral fat is the bad fat. Many people believe that subcutaneous fat is the one to blame for all the health risks yet it is totally the opposite. Subcutaneous fat is the type that is visual and you can grab hold of. While unsightly, it poses less of a concern. Visceral is the type you need to worry about. This kind cushions your organs and is found deep inside the abdomen.

There is a simple solution that is effective at treating the problem, a healthier lifestyle. By eating right and exercising on a routine basis, the tummy fat will begin to disappear. The type of fat loss plan varies between individuals and should be discussed with your doctor. He will determine what is right for you. When you are planning meals, cut out excess sugar and saturated fats. Eat more fruits and vegetables, decrease the amount of simple carbohydrates like white bread and control food portions and calorie intake.