For men, the accumulation of belly fat tends to be more pronounced than for women who haven’t reached menopause. This difference is largely due to the way men’s bodies store fat compared to women.

In men, the hormone testosterone plays a key role in fat distribution, leading to the tendency for more fat to accumulate around the abdominal area. In contrast, women’s bodies are more likely to store fat around the hips, thighs, and buttocks due to the influence of estrogen.

Main Causes of Belly Fat Accumulation in Men

Belly fat, also referred to as visceral fat, is stored deep within the abdominal cavity and wraps around essential organs like the liver, pancreas, and intestines.

Several factors contribute to belly fat accumulation in men, including:

• Consuming foods that are high in calories, saturated fats, and added sugars without balancing these with physical activity.
• Leading a sedentary lifestyle, which slows down metabolism.
• The effect of testosterone, which encourages fat storage around the belly.
• Cortisol, the stress hormone, promotes additional fat storage in the stomach. Additionally, insufficient sleep can disrupt hormonal balance and contribute to fat buildup.

The Harms of Belly Fat for Men

Belly fat is not just an aesthetic concern; it poses significant health risks. The buildup of fat around the abdomen can lead to various serious health issues, including:

Increased Risk of Heart Disease

Excess belly fat is closely linked to higher cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. Fat that accumulates around vital organs can cause inflammation and block blood vessels, raising the likelihood of heart attacks and coronary artery disease.

Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

The presence of excess visceral fat can lead to insulin resistance, a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes.

Impaired Liver Function

Belly fat can lead to fat buildup in the liver, known as fatty liver. If left untreated, this condition can progress to liver inflammation or chronic liver diseases.

Increased Risk of Cancer

Several studies have found that men with significant belly fat face a higher risk of certain cancers, including colorectal cancer and prostate cancer. This is due to the inflammatory substances found in visceral fat, which can damage cells and encourage cancer cell growth.

Decreased Sexual Function

Excess abdominal fat can lower testosterone levels, potentially leading to erectile dysfunction and a decrease in sexual desire.

To reduce these risks, adopting a healthier lifestyle is crucial. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress effectively, ensuring enough sleep, and sticking to consistent healthy habits.

If you have concerns about belly fat or need further advice, you can use the health consultation service through the Ai Care app, available on the App Store or Play Store.

Looking for more information about other diseases? Click here!