10 Reasons Why Belly Fat is Hard to Lose
Tried dozens of diets and still can't shake off belly fat? Here are some potential reasons.
- שירה דאבוש (כהן)
- פורסם כ"ב שבט התשע"ו
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Before we dive into the reasons why it's so hard to lose fat in the abdominal area, let's emphasize that a little belly fat is essential for our health as it plays a significant role in protecting our internal organs, especially the stomach. Thus, even when embarking on 'hunger diets', we need to be cautious and not overdo it. Fat cells also help in producing the hormone adipose that prevents a range of issues from vascular inflammation to heart disease and diabetes.
So what are the main reasons that can affect weight loss and leave us with stubborn belly fat rolls?
1. Low Magnesium Levels
Research in the field shows that people with low magnesium levels tend to consume more sugar, which over time, accumulates as 'hard to remove' carbohydrates in the belly area.
2. High Intake of Empty Carbs
Do you often find yourself eating fries, burgers, ready meals, and other unhealthy options in the junk food category? If so, be aware that these foods encourage increased insulin production in the blood and promote belly fat storage in the liver.
Photo: Shutterstock3. Fat-Rich Foods
Industrially produced foods like burgers, kebabs, and steaks are prevalent. Steer clear of them as you would from a burning fire and opt for foods containing unsaturated fatty acids to effectively reduce excess weight.
4. Skipped Exercise?
That’s unfortunate because regular exercise is a safe escape route for anyone looking to lose weight. Studies have shown that regular physical activity helps reduce measurements, accelerate calorie burning, and lower insulin levels in the blood.
5. Diet Drinks? Cross Them Off
First of all, knowledgeable individuals understand that there’s no such thing as a 'diet drink'. The industry loads these drinks with equally dangerous sugar substitutes that don’t assist in burning calories. Research indicates that people who consume diet drinks often eat more due to the illusion that they saved those calories by drinking diet soda. But as stated, this is not true.
6. Depression - Just Sleep
Believe it or not, depression is considered one of the more well-known catalysts for producing 'new' belly fat and creates a real inability to deal with the old fat. It’s further proof that the body-mind equation never disappoints. Want to burn off that belly fat? Start healing your mind. The two are interconnected.
7. Stress? There's No Reason
Continuing from the last point—not only can deep depression stand between you and your goal, but so can a state of stress.
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8. Is Success in Belly Fat Reduction Dependent on Age?
Research shows that post-menopausal women had more difficulty battling belly fat, with lower success rates than younger women.
9. Low-Fat Foods
There are fats, and then there are... fats. Foods containing monounsaturated fatty acids have been proven beneficial specifically in shedding belly fat.
10. Stick to 'Colorful' Plates
Fruits and vegetables not only garnish the plate, but they also supply us with a range of essential vitamins and minerals, some of which (like vitamin C, for instance) are directly linked to breaking down belly fat. Studies have shown that consuming fruits and vegetables in a variety of colors at every meal helps reduce waist circumference.
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