Belly fat reveals a lot about what’s going on within the body and isn’t simply about how the waistline appears in the mirror. Fat seems to stubbornly settle around the center for deeper reasons, despite the fact that many people attribute this to age or genetics. Dr. Alok Chopra, MD, MBBS, Consultant in Cardiology and Functional Medicine, discussed how abdominal fat has become “the one most Indians carry around like it’s normal” in a recent social media post. However, it isn’t. Let’s examine five underappreciated factors that contribute to this and show why it’s not always as easy as “eat less, move more.”
The carbohydrate-rich Indian dish
Dr. Chopra emphasizes how eating bread in the morning, rice for lunch, and roti for dinner causes you to consume more carbohydrates than you realize. The body swiftly turns more carbs into glucose when it absorbs them. The issue? Glucose is stored, primarily around the abdomen, if it is not burned off. It’s challenging because, although this practice seems “normal” in Indian homes, the body interprets it as ongoing overfeeding.
Stress, sleep, and the trigger for the unseen belly
Stress alters the chemistry of the body. Cortisol, the c, is elevated by emotional eating, long work hours, and c. Not only does cortisol cause restlessness, but it also tells the body to store fat, particularly around the abdomen. This explains why those who have trouble sleeping or who have a racing mind still experience a persistent tummy even after following a clean eating regimen.
Walking without perspiration does not burn fat
Although taking a leisurely stroll has its advantages, it is insufficiently vigorous to burn visceral fat, the harmful type that surrounds the abdomen. Dr. Chopra mentions how people’s bellies haven’t changed after 20 years of walking in the same park. The body needs heart-rate-raising cardio, such as jogging, cycling, or brisk walking, for at least 40 minutes each day in order to lose fat. Fat requires action that causes the body to perspire; thus a walk won’t do.
Dairy overconsumption and processed foods
Fiber is removed from processed foods, and refined grains, which function similarly to sugar, are consumed in excess. This promotes fat accumulation, delays digestion, and heightens cravings. When you combine it with the Indian habit of eating dairy products like milk, paneer, and curd several times a day, you end up with more calories than your body needs. To promote improved digestion and reduce belly fat, Dr. Chopra suggests consuming only one serving of dairy each day and concentrating on whole fruits, vegetables, and grains high in fiber. Further improving digestion, metabolism, and long-term weight management success can be achieved by drinking plenty of water, eating thoughtfully, and refraining from late-night snacking.
Genetics
Although the body’s tendency to accumulate fat is determined by genes, lifestyle decisions determine whether or not those genes are expressed. Because they think change is unattainable, people from families with a history of larger waists frequently give up early. However, studies indicate that targeted exercise, stress reduction, and regular dietary adjustments can overcome inherited predispositions. To put it briefly, the family tree may provide insight into the beginning, but it does not guarantee the conclusion.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
