What is visceral fat?

Visceral fat is body fat that is stored deep within the abdominal cavity. It stores around vital internal organs such as the intestines, the pancreas and the liver.

It differs from subcutaneous fat, which is fat that stores just under the skin, and is more noticeable psychically. Belly fat can be a combination of both, which is why it can be harder to shift.

How can we measure visceral fat?

For a detailed breakdown of actual surface area of body fat around certain internal organs, you would need an MRI scan, which don’t come cheap, and unless you think you have a serious medical condition are unnecessary when relating to this.

Although during our personal training sessions, I regularly measure your visceral fat using an advanced body composition machine known as TANITA. See below for an indication on visceral fat ranges.

​What are the health risks associated with high levels of visceral fat?

Everyone will have some visceral fat, although people with higher levels are exposed to greater health implications such as:

• Heart disease

• Type 2 diabetes

• Breast cancer

• Alzheimer’s disease

• Colorectal cancer

How can I reduce visceral fat?

Luckily visceral fat is generally easier to get rid of than its partner in crime, subcutaneous fat which likes to stick around.

Visceral fat responds well to an elevated heart rate, so incorporate decent amounts of endurance exercises into your routine such as running, biking, rowing or swimming.

Cut back on sugars and alcohol as these are more likely to be stored as fat. Stick to fresh fruit and vegetables along with good amounts of protein.

Cut back on sugars and alcohol as these are more likely to be stored as fat. Stick to fresh fruit and vegetables along with good amounts of protein.

#advice #health