Fat accumulated in the belly is not only a cosmetic problem, but it can also be a sign of health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. The main things that cause fat accumulation in the belly are:
Excessive sugar and starch (Sugar & Carbs): The main culprit is the use of sugary drinks, bakery products, and foods with flour. These calories that the body receives in excess are stored in the belly as fat.
Stress and hormonal changes: When the body experiences excessive mental stress, the body produces a hormone called ‘Cortisol’. This hormone increases the blood sugar level and causes fat to concentrate around the belly.
Lack of exercise and sedentary work: Metabolism decreases in people who work sitting for many hours. When physical activity decreases, the energy in the food consumed cannot be burned and it turns into fat in the belly.
Insomnia: People who do not get 7-8 hours of sleep a day have an increased level of the hunger-inducing hormone ‘Ghrelin’. This leads to overeating at night and weight gain.
Age and genetic factors: The body’s metabolism slows down with age. In women, there is a higher risk of fat accumulation in the abdomen due to hormonal changes after menopause.
