More recent research is showing that central or abdominal obesity is a big risk factor in heart disease. If you are clinically obese (BMI over 30), many diets and weight loss programmes which target problem areas of fat will be far less effective for you (as you have higher overall levels of body fat), than for those simply trying to ‘shed a few pounds’ for their summer holidays. If you want to reduce abdominal body fat, studies show that a mix of cardiovascular (aerobic) exercise and resistance training can help. Eating foods which balance your blood sugars (and therefore your insulin levels) and reducing your stress will also help to reduce abdominal fat, as both reduce cortisol levels (a key hormone in the production of certain types abdominal fat). And of course, a good way to reduce stress is … to exercise – though starting slowly and building up your fitness is vital in ensuring you don’t overwork yourself and turn your workout into a cause of your stress! As always, the best route then is to eat less, eat a balanced diet and exercise more. Unfortunately, that is never as easy as it sounds, which is why people who are overweight often turn to surgery that combines a reduction in their portion sizes with nutritional guidance, advice on exercise and emotional support (for help maintaining their new healthier eating habits). The common misconception is that surgery is drastic but in reality, that’s a view most often promoted by people who have never been overweight themselves. When you have tried dieting multiple times and not succeeded, surgery is a realistic option. It’s not for everyone, but it does work. Particularly when patients receive proper help and support in overcoming their issues with food, after they have their surgery. We know this because our patients lose weight, and it stays off.
Posted on: Thu, 11 Jul 2013 13:54:17 +0000
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