Abdominal obesity in women, rapid course of treatment. Abdominal fat - how to remove abdominal fat from the stomach? Vegetarianism, veganism and raw food diet
Since the end of the twentieth century, there has been a very serious problem in the world - humanity is actively, uncontrollably increasing its mass, becoming larger with each statistical year. Obesity, when fat deposits accumulate in excess in tissues, fiber, and internal organs, is caused by many factors. Improper nutrition with products that do not meet quality standards, disorganized daily routine and routine, overwork, environmental situation, all this can lead to disastrous consequences. We will discuss the causes and treatment of abdominal obesity in women and men in our article.
Excessive body fat that exceeds twenty percent of normal is considered obese. This causes considerable discomfort, both physical and psychological.
Abdominal obesity is such obesity in which all the main deposits are in the upper body, abdomen and chest. There are also other names for the disease: visceral, android or upper. At the same time, the silhouette changes, and the figure begins to resemble an apple on thin legs.
The main danger of pathology
This condition can cause diseases of the cardiovascular and nervous systems. Moreover, excess weight can be not just a scourge for health, but even become a serious threat to life. Something similar can develop in both men and women. First of all, it is not the gender or age of the patient that plays a role, but his lifestyle.
The mechanism of action of obesity is simple. In a normal state, a person’s fat is only about three kilograms, sometimes a little more or less. The patient may often have ten times more. The bulk accumulates on the intestines and forms the anterior wall of the peritoneum, where deformities of the figure arise. It envelops the internal organs, compresses them, preventing them from working properly, causing various disorders and disorders.
- Obesity significantly increases the risk of hypertension and angina. There are statistics that there are 2-4 times more overweight patients than thin ones.
- Patients with abdominal obesity are fifty percent more likely to suffer from heart attacks and strokes.
- Blood circulation and lymphatic drainage may be seriously impaired.
- Damage to the liver and kidneys may occur.
- The pancreas, being another filter of the body, also suffers greatly from this disease.
- The chance of developing different types of diabetes mellitus increases significantly.
- Oncological problems more often appear in people suffering from this disease.
It is believed that even common colds, viral and respiratory diseases occur in patients with such obesity much longer and more severely than in those with normal body fat.
Symptoms
The main sign of abdominal obesity in men and women is an abnormal accumulation of fat in the upper part of the body, starting from the abdomen. There are averages. We can talk about pathology when a woman’s waist circumference exceeds eight ten centimeters, and a man’s waist circumference exceeds ninety-four centimeters.
With abdominal obesity, the overall body mass index very often remains within the normal range. Because of this, a person simply does not realize the problem until it reaches a critical stage.
The most striking symptoms of the disease can be associated problems in the body.
- Diabetes mellitus type 2.
- Dyslipidemia.
- Insulin resistance.
- Arterial hypertension.
- Failures in uric acid metabolism.
- Increasing the level of the so-called stress hormone in the body - cortisol, which is produced by fat.
- Abdominal fat produces another hormone called interleukin-6. If it is in excess, even a harmless cold can have serious complications and consequences.
- In men, there is an excess of estrogen in the body, which leads to major disorders of potency and libido, and reproductive abilities.
- Obese women often suffer from infertility or the inability to bear a child.
Excess hormones in any case are harmful to the body and all its systems. Doctors note the accumulation of “bad” cholesterol in blood vessels. People may suffer from frequent constipation and increased flatulence. At the same time, fat gain not only does not stop, but also grows exponentially.
Causes of belly fat
The most common reason for the growth of abdominal fat on the stomach and chest is the inability to process the energy obtained from food. They are ingested in the form of kilocalories, which the body is completely unable to expend due to low physical activity. That is, constant overeating and a sedentary lifestyle leads to fat deposits.
- Physical inactivity.
- Abuse of sweets, fatty high-calorie foods, smoked foods, pickles.
- Genetic predisposition to disorders of the enzymatic system.
- Stress overeating is “eating” nervous states with sweets or other foods.
- Endocrine diseases.
- Depression, chronic fatigue syndrome.
- Taking hormonal or psychotropic drugs for an excessively long time.
- Change in physiological status (pregnancy,).
The situation usually gets worse quite quickly if nothing is done to stop it. Fat appears suddenly, and when the patient begins to ring the bells, it becomes not easy to get rid of it. However, you should not think that it is impossible to bring your body back to normal.
Differences between female and male abdominal obesity
- Female obesity is harmful, but not as bad as male obesity. Men get sick much more, endure symptoms more difficult, and die much earlier.
- Women accumulate fat tissue much faster. This is how nature, from time immemorial, protected the successor of the family from cold and hunger.
- It is much easier for a woman to lose weight than for a man.
Diagnosis of abdominal obesity
If such a disease is detected, the doctor must conduct a series of studies.
- Measuring your waist to determine if it fits within the normal range.
- Detects and calculates body mass index (BMI) and obesity index. To do this, weight in kilograms must be divided by height in meters. A BMI of 30 is considered a fairly serious health threat.
- A full medical examination is carried out, all kinds of tests are taken to identify disorders in the functioning of organs and systems: the level of uric acid is measured in a biochemical blood test, a hypoglycemic profile is identified, a glucose tolerance test is performed, etc.
In some cases, magnetic resonance and computed tomography, ultrasound, X-ray densitometry are indicated, and a consultation with a psychologist and nutritionist is prescribed.
How to get rid of abdominal obesity in women and men
Treatment of this problem, when it has reached an increased or high degree, is carried out only under the supervision of medical personnel. Home attempts will most likely not yield results at such stages, because the problem lies in disruption of the internal organs and is fraught with serious consequences. If you notice the disease in time, then activity, physical exercise, and nutritional correction will completely help to cope with the problem.
Psychological attitude
Treatment of any disease must begin with the patient being prepared for it. That is, his mental and psychological state is very important. Moreover, it is necessary to prepare a person not only to return a beautiful figure, but also to cure disorders of internal organs.
You need to understand that abdominal obesity does not come on its own - it brings with it obligatory malfunctions of all body systems. you need to set your goals correctly, realize them, understand them, accept them, and only then begin treatment.
Balanced diet
The diet for abdominal obesity is designed to constantly reduce the daily caloric intake until it meets the needs. The body should not receive more than it can spend, this is the law.
Nutritionists recommend reducing the consumption of refined carbohydrates and animal fats as much as possible. But fiber and proteins need to be included in the diet in normal quantities. Salt, seasonings and hot spices should be eliminated from the diet if possible. You will also have to give up fried foods, but you can eat boiled, steamed and even baked foods in small doses. It is advised to switch to fractional meals up to five times a day.
Don't forget to add vegetables and fruits to your diet. If possible, they should be eaten raw, but can be boiled or steamed. Some of them, for example, eggplants, can be eaten at any time of the day without harm to health.
Regular physical activity
However, no matter how hard you try, a low-calorie diet alone to reduce weight and get rid of abdominal obesity is not enough. Metabolism will slow down with the new diet, and fat, even if it stops accumulating, will not go away. It is very important to use physical activity to speed up the activation of the treatment process.
There is no need to exhaust yourself in the gym every day until you sweat blood, this will only bring negative emotions, disappointment, and can lead to a nervous breakdown. It is best to consult a doctor who will prescribe your own, individual training regimen, for example, three times a week. In addition, you need to walk more, give up the elevator, and also move more often on foot or by bike where you previously used a car or public transport.
Medication correction
Many people hope that the doctor will prescribe them a miracle pill and the excess belly fat will disappear on its own, as if by magic, but this does not happen. Medicines are prescribed only if, after twelve weeks, comprehensive measures (diet, exercise) have failed. Various fat-mobilizing drugs that eliminate the feeling of hunger and antidepressants can be prescribed.
- "Adiposine."
- "Fluoxetine."
- "Phepranon".
- "Xenical".
- "Regenon".
- "Meridia".
Only a doctor can determine which medications are safest for the patient. Therefore, it is strictly prohibited to “prescribe” such drugs for yourself. This can cause serious consequences, which will take even longer and more difficult to treat.
Surgical treatments for high obesity are performed in extremely rare cases. It's all about the high risk of complications. Most often, they may be aimed at removing part of the stomach or intestines. The long-term effect of abdominal surgery in cases of high obesity has not yet been thoroughly studied by science, so it should be treated with particular caution.
Features of treatment depending on gender
While women can easily afford to lose weight and gain weight several times over a short period of time, men do not have this luxury. For some girls, it is enough to go on a diet, and the excess volume quickly disappears, leaving no trace behind.
Obese guys will have to put in a lot of effort and regular cycling will definitely not be enough. This happens due to increased muscle mass, which is like a factory specializing in the production of hormones. It is more difficult for a man to acquire abdominal obesity, but it will not be easy to say goodbye to it.
Obesity prevention
Timely steps taken to relieve symptoms, as well as eliminate the very cause of obesity, can have the best effect. Even with a decrease in body weight by at least 10-12%, it already reduces the risk of overall early mortality. Therefore, prevention is extremely important.
- Calories must be introduced into the body exactly as much as it can process. You will have to take a closer look at your own healthy eating.
- If you have a genetic predisposition, you should reduce your intake of carbohydrates and fats to a minimum.
- Plant-based and protein foods should predominate in the diet.
- Physical activity without fanaticism will help you stay in shape. You don't have to train five times a week. It will be enough to do dancing, walking, cycling, morning jogging - whatever suits your tastes.
If you don’t really see “anything”, but you are dissatisfied with your physical shape and body, you need to first go to the doctor, get examined by an endocrinologist, talk to a nutritionist. Only after this can any conclusions be drawn.
In which fat is mainly deposited on the abdomen, it is more typical for men, as it is associated with changes in the level of the hormone testosterone. If abdominal obesity develops in a woman, this indicates an imbalance in her male and female sex hormones. The danger of this is that fat accumulation occurs not only in the subcutaneous fatty tissue, but also in the abdominal cavity, more precisely, in the organs located in it, which disrupts the functioning of, for example, the liver and pancreas (in such situations they speak of the development of visceral obesity) . According to statistics, every third person on the planet suffers from abdominal obesity, which means they can develop diabetes at any time.
Attention! The figure of a person suffering from abdominal obesity resembles an apple. The development of pathology is indicated by waist measurements greater than 88 centimeters in women and greater than 102 centimeters in men.
Causes of abdominal obesity
Abdominal and visceral obesity, as a rule, complement each other. Most often their development is provoked by:
- Disruption of the saturation center located in the hypothalamus. A person eats a lot, which means he receives thousands of extra calories due to the constant feeling of hunger, which is formed by taste buds.
- Psychogenic overeating. Anxiety, depression and stress force a person to “eat up” problems and thus increase the level of serotonin, a hormone that gives a good mood and psychological comfort.
- Hereditary factors. Body constitution is most often inherited, so if the mother has an “apple” figure, then it is likely that the daughter’s fat will concentrate in the abdominal area, causing abdominal visceral obesity.
- Changes in hormonal levels. As already mentioned, the deposition of belly fat is stimulated by the male hormone testosterone, so abdominal obesity is dangerous for women who not only have a growing belly, but also a threat of developing hirsutism, infertility and premature onset of menopause. Besides, Abdominal obesity may be caused by a lack of leptin- a hormone produced by the hypothalamus and responsible for the feeling of fullness.
- Poor diet and lack of exercise. As a matter of fact, these factors provoke the development of obesity of any type, because calories received but not spent by the body turn into fat.
Why is abdominal obesity dangerous for men and women?
Experts say: men and women suffering from abdominal obesity are at high risk of developing metabolic syndrome - a condition in which the body's cells do not properly interact with glucose, which leads to the development of diabetes. In addition, their levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, including “bad” cholesterol, increase. Low-density lipoproteins settle in large quantities on the walls of blood vessels, narrowing their lumen and impeding blood flow - thus creating ideal conditions for the development of a stroke or myocardial infarction.
- abdominal obesity in women is accompanied by the production of a large amount of male sex hormones, which manifests itself in menstrual irregularities and male-pattern hair growth.
- abdominal and visceral obesity in men characterized by a decrease in sexual activity.
Treatment of abdominal obesity
In both women and men, abdominal (synonym: android) obesity is considered the most “stubborn”, since the “beer belly”, the “lifebuoy” at the waist and fat deposits on the chest are difficult to correct and cannot be removed with ordinary diets and exercises. Even modern cosmetology techniques do not always cope with belly fat. Although, diet, exercise and , applied comprehensively as part of an individual weight loss program, give good results- a person, albeit slowly, but still gets rid of visceral and abdominal obesity.
Those who want to get rid of belly fat should adhere to the following dietary rules:
- exclude appetite-stimulating alcohol, including beer, from the diet;
- switch to fractional meals - eat 5-6 times a day, consuming no more than 250 grams of food at a time;
- have dinner three to four hours before bedtime;
- exclude from the diet confectionery products, sweet drinks, sauces, fried and smoked foods, trans fats (margarines and spreads);
- limit fats and carbohydrates, but be sure to include vegetable oil, cereals and grain bread in the diet - this is necessary for the normal functioning of the pancreas and gall bladder;
- count calories - food calorie tables are available on the Internet;
- drink more than two liters of water a day, as water fills the stomach and slightly dulls the feeling of hunger.
As for sports exercises, then for abdominal obesity, aerobic rather than strength exercises are preferable, eg walking, jogging, cycling. Among salon cosmetology procedures, experts recommend seaweed wraps, myostimulation, vacuum massage, contrast baths and Charcot showers.
Attention! If diagnosed obesityIII or IV degree, and even burdened with a “bouquet” of chronic diseases (morbid obesity), then the most effective are , such as gastric banding, intragastric balloon placement, gastric bypass and gastroplasty.
Video: the dangers of visceral fat
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When they talk about abdominal obesity
The basic criterion for the clinical diagnosis of any form of obesity is a BMI (body mass index) of 25-30 or higher. It is also prognostically important to determine the most likely mechanism of development of the disease, its severity and type. At the same time, they focus on the characteristics of the figure that is formed with excess weight and measurements. Abdominal obesity is characterized by the predominant deposition of fatty tissue in the abdomen and upper body, including the neck, face, and shoulder girdle. It is also called the top, android, and the figure is compared to an apple. Men often talk about having a “beer belly”, even in the absence of addiction to alcoholic beverages.
The transition to the waist with this type of obesity is practically not visible, and with massive deposits it is completely absent. The abdomen is enlarged and rounded, clearly protrudes beyond the pubic line, and cannot be completely retracted even when lying on the back. At the same time, the buttocks and lower limbs look disproportionately “thinner” even if there is excess fatty tissue on them. Key clinical criteria for this pathology:Free diagnostics of excess weight at the Dr. Bormental clinic, hurry up and receive a gift!
- An increase in WC (waist circumference) beyond the normative figures. For women, this figure should not exceed 88 cm, for men - 102 cm. Waist measurement is considered a key screening test for routine diagnosis of abdominal obesity.
- Changing the ratio between waist and hip circumference. In women, this parameter becomes more than 0.85, in men - more than 1.0.
The “apple” figure is not at all a constitutional feature; it should not be attributed to lack of training of the abdominal muscles. This is a fairly serious pathology with a proven high risk of developing various diseases. People with this problem are advised to consult a doctor, since it can be difficult for women to get rid of abdominal obesity and cope with already formed complications without the help of a specialist.
Classification: main varieties
There are 2 options for excessive fat accumulation in the abdominal area:- Subcutaneous-abdominal type, with a predominance of subcutaneous fat. This is a more favorable type of obesity, but in isolated form it is rare.
- Visceral type, with pronounced intra-abdominal fat deposition. It is localized around the internal organs and partially in their thickness, in the space around large vessels, in the greater and lesser omentum, in the intestinal mesentery, and retroperitoneal region. Such fat is also found outside the abdominal cavity, mainly around the heart and kidneys.
A mixed type often occurs, when visceral deposits are complemented by a general increase in the volume of subcutaneous fat, involving the abdominal area. At the same time, the greatest negative impact is also associated with excess intra-abdominal fat, the fight against which requires an integrated approach.
What contributes to this pathology
Abdominal obesity is predisposed to:- Sedentary lifestyle.
- Unbalanced high-calorie diet. People prone to obesity prefer highly nutritious, easily digestible foods, with an excess of animal fats in the diet, frequent consumption of baked goods, other carbohydrate-rich dishes, the so-called “food waste” (chips, crackers with flavoring additives, cookies, etc.). Overeating and frequent heavy snacks are also significant.
- Endocrine imbalance. It may be associated with pregnancy and lactation, insufficient selection of oral contraceptives, dysfunction of the thyroid gland and hypothalamic-pituitary system, and the use of certain hormonal medications. Changes during menopause are also of great importance.
- Some mental disorders (mainly anxiety-depressive spectrum), taking antidepressants, antipsychotics and other drugs with psychotropic effects.
- Tendency to alcoholism.
- Chronic stress, repeated psycho-emotional overload, overwork.
- Lack of sleep, non-compliance with the sleep-wake cycle (for example, during daily duty, shift work, etc.).
Why is visceral fat needed?
The basis of all types of adipose tissue are fat cells - adipocytes. They are able to accumulate fat, which occupies almost the entire area of their cytoplasm. This is a “strategic reserve” of energy, which is consumed when other sources are depleted or unavailable. Adipose tissue is also involved in thermoregulation, protects and maintains vital anatomical structures. But its functions do not end there. Adipose tissue is a metabolically active structure; currently it is equated to peripheral endocrine organs. Moreover, this applies to the greatest extent to visceral fat. It synthesizes biologically active substances involved in the regulation of many processes in the human body:- Estrogens formed from adrenal androgens under the action of adipocyte aromatase. They are also synthesized in the male body, and with obesity, the level of this hormone becomes clinically significant.
- Leptin is a hormone responsible for creating a feeling of satiety. An important component of the system for regulating energy metabolism in the body, it is involved in regulating appetite and maintaining cell sensitivity to insulin.
- Adiponectin is a hormone also responsible for energy homeostasis. Participates in the regulation of glucose and fatty acid metabolism in skeletal muscles, myocardium and liver. It also has anti-atherosclerotic (anti-atherogenic) and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Angiotensinogen. It is a precursor of the hormone angiotensin, which has a vasoconstrictor effect and thereby increases blood pressure.
- Substances involved in nonspecific inflammatory and immune reactions in the body: prostaglandins, interleukin 6 (IL6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα). Some of them also regulate cell growth and are involved in antitumor defense.
- Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), which regulates the life cycle of cells, the rate of their proliferation (division, growth and specialization).
- Adrenomedullin. It has a vasodilator and antioxidant effect, protects the heart from damage (cardioprotective effect)
- Fibrinogen, which is involved in cascade processes of blood clotting.
Adipose tissue is also the main source of free (non-esterified) fatty acids. In the body, they are an important energy substrate for muscle cells and are converted into triglycerides and phospholipids, which are used to build cell membranes and secrete a number of biologically active substances. Visceral fat is an important component of the body's metabolic regulatory system. A change in its amount has a negative impact on health, and many complications that develop are practically irreversible and are associated with the risk of premature mortality. It is they who in most cases become the reason for visiting a doctor, and often obesity as the root cause of diseases remains without due attention. This approach reduces the effectiveness of treatment and worsens the prognosis.
Why is excess visceral fiber dangerous?
Excessive accumulation of visceral fat leads to endocrine imbalance, with the formation of a complex of secondary metabolic disorders. This is called metabolic syndrome. It significantly increases the risk of developing a number of diseases, affecting many organs and systems of the body.
The main manifestations of metabolic syndrome in abdominal obesity include:
- Increased serum levels of triglycerides, free cholesterol and low fraction lipoproteins. This imbalance of the lipid profile is called atherogenic dyslipidemia, it promotes the deposition of cholesterol under the intima (inner lining) of the arteries with the development of atherosclerosis.
- Increased levels of pro-inflammatory compounds. This contributes to nonspecific damage to the walls of blood vessels, myocardium (heart muscle), joints and other structures, slows down the regeneration process, increases the risk of complications and chronicity of emerging diseases.
- Changes in carbohydrate metabolism in the form of insulin resistance (reduced sensitivity of cells to insulin) with compensatory insulinemia (increased insulin levels in the blood). This predisposes to the subsequent development of type 2 diabetes mellitus and maintains existing eating disorders. Moreover, insulin resistance can exist without a decrease in glucose tolerance, including in people with a slightly higher BMI.
- Changes in the reactivity of vascular walls, predisposition to arterial hypertension.
- Decreased quality of antitumor protection.
- Dysfunction of the reproductive system.
- Disruption of the blood coagulation system, with a predisposition to thrombosis.
Complications of abdominal obesity
Visceral obesity is considered a modifiable risk factor for the development of many diseases. Most of them are actually complications of metabolic syndrome, others are associated with secondary biomechanical disorders. The most common and serious consequences of metabolic syndrome in obesity:- Cardiovascular diseases caused mainly by atherothrombotic changes in the cardiac (heart) vessels. Obese people are predisposed to coronary artery disease with pain syndrome and chronic heart failure, myocardial infarction, and cardiac arrhythmias. Studies have shown that every 10% increase in weight leads to a 10% increase in the risk of developing coronary heart disease over 5 years.
- Hypertension and the associated risks of acute vascular accidents (heart attack and stroke) and chronic dyscirculatory encephalopathy. Even a 5% increase in body weight increases the risk of developing arterial hypertension by 30% (over the next 4 years).
- Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
- Atherogenic dyslipidemia, followed by atherosclerotic damage to the main arterial vessels. Most often, cholesterol plaques are found in the thoracic and abdominal aorta, in the carotid arteries, in the vessels of the heart, brain, kidneys, and arteries of the lower extremities. They can block up to 70-80% of the lumen of the vessel, which is fraught with the development of ischemia (oxygen starvation) in the blood-supplying organs.
- Reproductive dysfunction. They are associated with an increase in the non-ovarian estrogen fraction and with secondary changes in the levels of other sex hormones. Women develop irregularities in the ovarian-menstrual cycle, and there is a high probability of infertility. Adolescent obesity may result in delayed sexual development. In men, the figure becomes deformed according to the female type, libido and potency decrease, and gynecomastia appears.
Non-metabolic complications of obesity
With obesity, other complications that are not directly related to metabolic disorders often occur. For example, visceral deposits contribute to disruption of the functioning of internal organs, which find themselves in an insulating and compressive fatty “shell”. The pancreas, kidneys and heart suffer the most from this. People with excess body weight are also prone to degenerative-dystrophic changes in the spine and large vessels. Excess weight always leads to excessive stress on the musculoskeletal system, but with visceral-abdominal obesity the risk of degeneration of articular cartilage is much higher. This is due not only to metabolic disorders, but also to a shift in the center of gravity and a change in the configuration of the spine with a significant increase in the abdomen. On the subject: Visceral obesity is also associated with an increased risk of varicose veins of the lower extremities and pelvic organs. Excess abdominal fat and increased intra-abdominal pressure disrupt venous outflow from the lower body, which, due to insufficient physical activity, predisposes to the development of varicose veins.Is a big belly always a sign of obesity?
It is important to understand that persistent abdominal enlargement can be caused not only by excess fat deposits, but also by pathology in the abdominal cavity. For example, an examination may reveal an accumulation of fluid (ascites), a space-occupying formation (tumor) of various origins, abnormal expansion and elongation of the intestine, and other diseases. These problems can be combined with excess weight. Excessive subcutaneous fat deposits in this case mask the symptoms, which leads to a late visit to the doctor and untimely initiation of the necessary treatment. Therefore, people with excess body weight should not neglect consultations with specialists and examination, especially if there are warning symptoms from the digestive organs or liver. Diagnostics is also necessary if it seems impossible to lose weight with abdominal obesity, and the stomach remains clearly rounded despite a significant decrease in body weight. Another reason for a protruding abdomen in the absence of general obesity is isolated visceral fat deposition. As strange as it may sound, modern bodybuilders often face this problem. They have minimal subcutaneous fat and clearly defined abdominal muscles, which is combined with a bulging abdomen. The reason for this imbalance is metabolic syndrome.
Such disorders in bodybuilders are associated with an artificially created hormonal imbalance, which occurs when using certain drugs to stimulate muscle growth (hypertrophy). The most dangerous in this regard are products based on somatotropic hormone, which is also called growth hormone. They not only provoke metabolic disorders, but can also contribute to excessive growth of internal organs and certain parts of the body.
What examination is needed
Abdominal obesity requires a comprehensive therapeutic approach, and it is advisable to get rid of this problem under the supervision of a doctor. Before starting treatment, it is advisable to undergo extensive diagnostics to assess the severity of metabolic syndrome and its complications. The examination will also help identify aggravating factors and concomitant diseases that can slow down goal achievement. Basic diagnosis for visceral-abdominal obesity should include:- Consultation with a therapist (initial and based on the results of the examination), with assessment of blood pressure levels, recording of anthropometric indicators and determination of BMI. In some medical institutions, such primary diagnosis is carried out by a nutritionist with basic therapeutic specialization.
- Biochemical blood test. Blood glucose, total bilirubin and its fractions, urea, creatinine, total protein, lipid profile (triglycerides, total cholesterol, lipoprotein fractions) are checked. If necessary, other indicators are also assessed.
- Consultation with an endocrinologist.
- Detection of insulin resistance and carbohydrate metabolism disorders: determination of fasting insulin levels, conducting a glucose tolerance test. Such an examination is usually prescribed by an endocrinologist.
Examinations are also required for overweight patients who initially consulted a doctor about diseases associated with excess weight. After all, getting rid of obesity will reduce their risks of cardiac and cerebral complications, compensate for current pathology and improve the overall prognosis.
What to do. Principles of treatment
Treatment for abdominal obesity should be aimed at reducing body weight, correcting existing endocrine and metabolic disorders, and compensating for already developed complications. Such an integrated approach will improve the current state of health, reduce the risk of severe vascular accidents (stroke, heart attack) and prevent many diseases.Abdominal obesity is the most common, but at the same time the most dangerous type of excess weight. It is worth noting that the disease most often affects males, and develops relatively rarely in women. Both an incorrect lifestyle and reasons that have a pathological basis can serve as a source of the disease. In addition, the influence of genetic predisposition cannot be excluded. Next, we will consider in detail what kind of disease this is, what causes, symptoms and treatment methods are used.
Abdominal obesity: what is it?
Abdominal obesity is a type of obesity in which fatty tissue is deposited only or predominantly in the abdominal area (waist) and around internal organs. The term “abdominal” (from the Latin word “abdomen” - belly) means abdominal, that is, it indicates that fat is deposited in the abdomen. The fat that is deposited during abdominal obesity is called visceral (visceral - related to the internal organs), therefore the second name for this type of obesity is “visceral obesity”.
In addition to the gradual increase in abdominal volume, the clinical picture consists of the following signs: fatigue, decreased performance, shortness of breath, decreased sexual desire and infertility.
Only a clinician can make a correct diagnosis and find out why a person develops abdominal obesity, based on information obtained during a physical examination, laboratory tests and instrumental procedures.
Abdominal obesity can occur in outwardly thin and slender people. There is evidence that indicates that 45% of slim women and 60% of men without outward signs of obesity have excess visceral fat deposition. It's important to know that athletes can also have abdominal obesity because exercise affects the fat under the skin rather than the fat inside the belly. At the same time, people who do not exercise regularly but eat healthily have a normal amount of abdominal fat, although they may not look very thin.
Reasons
Abdominal obesity is an excess accumulation of adipose tissue in the upper half of the torso and abdomen.
This disease is common in developed countries, and it has been noted that the higher a person’s standard of living, the more susceptible he is to obesity in general and abdominal obesity in particular. In terms of the impact on health, ordinary external obesity does not pose a serious danger; it is more of an aesthetic imperfection. Abdominal obesity is a threat to human health.
According to the etiology, obesity can be nutritional-constitutional and symptomatic. The first option is much more common and is due to heredity and a person’s lifestyle. According to the clinical experience of doctors, excess weight gain due to endocrine and other pathologies is a less common phenomenon. The list of causes of abdominal obesity includes the following points:
- Constitutional features. Genetic predisposition is one of the causes of the disease in 25-70% of cases. The characteristics of metabolic processes, factors for the development of metabolic syndrome and diabetes are inherited.
- Type of food. Obesity is promoted by excess caloric content of food, consumption of large quantities in the evening and at night, and the transition from traditional national nutrition to industrial. The patients' diet is dominated by fats, light carbohydrates, and alcohol.
- Eating disorders. Food addictions are determined by family and national stereotypes regarding food and mental health. With emotional disorders, the exchange of endorphins and serotonin is disrupted, the consumption of sweets and alcohol becomes “doping”, and addiction is formed.
- Physical inactivity. An increase in the amount of fat is often caused by inactivity in everyday life - insufficient energy consumption from food. Fats and carbohydrates that are not wasted by the body on physical activity are processed and stored in the “depot”.
- Endocrine disorders. Hypercortisolism, insulinoma, hypogonadism and hypothyroidism lead to obesity. The disease is provoked by a change in the secretion of hormones, as a result, appetite increases, the habit of overeating is formed, and lipolysis slows down.
Types and types
There are 2 options for excessive fat accumulation in the abdominal area:
- Subcutaneous-abdominal type, with a predominance of subcutaneous fat. This is a more favorable type of obesity, but in isolated form it is rare.
- Visceral type, with pronounced intra-abdominal fat deposition. It is localized around the internal organs and partially in their thickness, in the space around large vessels, in the greater and lesser omentum, in the intestinal mesentery, and retroperitoneal region. Such fat is also found outside the abdominal cavity, mainly around the heart and kidneys.
Visceral obesity is the most dangerous to health. It is considered as a key risk factor for the development of many severe and even potentially fatal complications.
Often a mixed type occurs, when visceral deposits are complemented by a general increase in the volume of subcutaneous fat, involving the abdominal area. At the same time, the greatest negative impact is also associated with excess intra-abdominal fat, the fight against which requires an integrated approach.
And it has several options:
- accumulation of fat cells directly under the skin is the most favorable type of disease, since it responds well to conservative therapy, consisting of therapeutic exercises and diet. Complications in such cases develop extremely rarely;
- the formation of adipose tissue around vital organs - while getting rid of extra pounds is much more difficult. In addition, there is a high probability of life-threatening consequences. Therapy often includes medical intervention.
Pathology has three degrees of severity:
- Stage 1 – waist circumference for men does not exceed 94 centimeters, and for women 80 centimeters;
- Stage 2 - indicators for males vary from 94.2 to 101.3 centimeters, for females - from 81.2 to 88.6 cm;
- Stage 3 – in such cases, the waist circumference in men is 102.6 cm or more, and in women – 88.9 centimeters or more.
Symptoms
A characteristic feature is a large waist circumference due to an increase in the volume of the abdominal cavity. Patients with this diagnosis report a rapid heartbeat even after mild physical exertion. Against this background, increased sweating, flatulence and belching are observed, which were not there before. Other characteristic signs of abdominal obesity:
- depression;
- heartburn;
- disruption of the functioning of the digestive system;
- varicose veins;
- apnea;
- dyslipidemia – a disorder of fat metabolism;
- infertility;
- menstrual cycle disorders in women;
- decreased performance;
- decreased sexual activity;
- changes in blood composition;
- heaviness in the stomach after eating;
- increased appetite;
- tendency to colds;
- high blood pressure.
Possible complications
Abdominal obesity is a dangerous disease that can lead to a large number of dangerous consequences. The list of the dangers of the disease includes:
- malignant arterial hypertension;
- inability to have children;
- secondary diabetes mellitus resulting from insulin resistance;
- polycystic ovary syndrome;
- atrial fibrillation;
- stroke;
- coronary heart disease;
- fatty liver degeneration;
- calculous cholecystitis;
- susceptibility to oncology and inflammatory processes;
- accumulation of large amounts of cholesterol in blood vessels, which disrupts the nutrition of internal organs;
- heart failure;
- salt deposits in joints.
Diagnostics
Abdominal obesity requires a comprehensive therapeutic approach, and it is advisable to get rid of this problem under the supervision of a doctor. Before starting treatment, it is advisable to undergo extensive diagnostics to assess the severity of metabolic syndrome and its complications. The examination will also help identify aggravating factors and concomitant diseases that can slow down goal achievement.
Basic diagnosis for visceral-abdominal obesity should include:
- Consultation with a therapist (initial and based on the results of the examination), with assessment of blood pressure levels, recording of anthropometric indicators and determination of BMI. In some medical institutions, such primary diagnosis is carried out by a nutritionist with basic therapeutic specialization.
- Biochemical blood test. Blood glucose, total bilirubin and its fractions, urea, creatinine, total protein, lipid profile (triglycerides, total cholesterol, lipoprotein fractions) are checked. If necessary, other indicators are also assessed.
- Consultation with an endocrinologist.
- Detection of insulin resistance and carbohydrate metabolism disorders: determination of fasting insulin levels, conducting a glucose tolerance test. Such an examination is usually prescribed by an endocrinologist.
If signs of atherosclerosis, cardiovascular pathology, hypertension, abnormalities in carbohydrate metabolism and other disorders are detected, an extended examination is possible. The patient may be referred for an ultrasound of the abdominal organs, ultrasound of the great vessels and heart, or to a cardiologist. It is advisable for women with menstrual irregularities to undergo an examination by a gynecologist.
Examinations are also required for overweight patients who initially consulted a doctor about diseases associated with excess weight.. After all, getting rid of obesity will reduce their risks of cardiac and cerebral complications, compensate for current pathology and improve the overall prognosis.
How to get rid of abdominal obesity?
Therapy against such obesity is complex. Treatment can take a long time because patients have to lose a lot of weight. In general, the treatment regimen includes the following areas:
- lifestyle changes;
- transition to proper, low-calorie, but balanced nutrition;
- introducing a sufficient amount of physical activity into the daily routine;
- treatment of concomitant diseases;
- taking medications as prescribed by a doctor.
A complex of physical therapy is selected individually for each patient, taking into account the degree of obesity and health status. An important condition for the success of therapy is the emotional state. The patient needs to understand that getting rid of excess weight and improving the quality of life is possible only with his personal desire. If a person does not reconsider his diet, habits, and physical activity, then no medicine will help him maintain health. Medicines are also part of the treatment, but only in combination with diet and exercise. Doctors may prescribe the following medications:
| Metformin | The main indication for use is diabetes mellitus types 1 and 2. In addition, Metformin is recommended for patients suffering from concomitant obesity. It is prescribed to women for polycystic ovary syndrome, but only under the strict supervision of a doctor. The main effect of Metformin is to reduce the absorption of glucose from the intestine while increasing tissue sensitivity to insulin. |
| Orlistat | The substance of the same name in the drug blocks the entry of triglycerides into the blood, which causes energy deficiency. Thanks to this, the human body mobilizes fats from its own reserves. The drug is used for obesity to reduce and maintain weight, but only on a diet |
| Sibutramine | The drug has an anorexigenic effect, therefore it is used to treat patients with a body mass index of 30 or more. Taking Sibutramine increases the feeling of fullness and reduces appetite |
Liposuction - a radical method
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves pumping out fat from the abdominal area using a vacuum method. The procedure allows you to get rid of fatty tissue with minimal blood loss. No more than 6 liters of fat are removed in one session.
👩🏻⚕️ Before liposuction, a number of standard tests are taken. This is necessary to identify contraindications. To minimize risks, may prescribe additional diagnostic procedures.
The operation cannot be performed in the following cases:
- disorders of the nervous system;
- low immunity;
- diabetes mellitus;
- renal failure;
- respiratory diseases;
- infections;
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
- oncology;
- arterial hypertension;
- varicose veins.
Possible complications of the operation include:
- sagging skin;
- tissue ptosis;
- thromboembolism;
- extensive hematomas;
- swelling;
- suppuration;
- loss of sensitivity in certain areas of the body.
Help from a psychologist
- Any forms and types of obesity can be provoked by psychosomatics. Food addiction occurs when there is an abundance of stress or dissatisfaction with oneself. The root of the problem begins in childhood, when the child is instilled with a culture of nutrition.
- Looking at his parents, he eats away at his problems, which leads to food addiction. At a conscious age, food helps get rid of negative emotions.
Medications prescribed by your doctor can help you cope with an eating disorder. Tablets help normalize the functioning of the nervous system. - But in addition, a frank conversation with a psychologist is necessary. He will identify the causes of the pathology and prescribe treatment, the basis of which is self-analysis. In some cases, hypnosis may be required.
- Treatment of abdominal obesity at home is not always effective. It is recommended to seek help from specialists. They will select the most effective and comfortable way to lose weight. After treatment, it is very important to maintain proper nutrition and exercise.
Diet and nutrition regime 🥑
Following a low-calorie diet is an important condition for treating obesity. Calorie content is reduced by 300–500 units compared to the usual human diet. Weight loss is achieved not only by reducing the energy value of the diet, but also by replacing harmful foods with healthy ones. The following are prohibited:
- sugar;
- baked goods;
- sweet carbonated drinks;
- candies;
- confectionery;
- fried potatoes;
- pork;
- mayonnaise, ketchup;
- high fat dairy products;
- semi-finished products.
Dishes need to be steamed, stewed or baked. You shouldn’t completely give up fats - they can be obtained from vegetable oils, avocados, seeds, nuts, and fatty fish.
- low fat dairy products;
- seafood;
- eggs;
- lean meat;
- legumes;
- fresh vegetables and fruits;
- whole wheat bread;
- cereals
Regular physical activity
However, no matter how hard you try, a low-calorie diet alone to reduce weight and get rid of abdominal obesity is not enough. Metabolism will slow down with the new diet, and fat, even if it stops accumulating, will not go away. It is very important to use physical activity to speed up the activation of the treatment process.
There is no need to exhaust yourself in the gym every day until you sweat blood, this will only bring negative emotions, disappointment, and can lead to a nervous breakdown. It is best to consult a doctor who will prescribe your own, individual training regimen, for example, three times a week. In addition, you need to walk more, give up the elevator, and also move more often on foot or by bike where you previously used a car or public transport.
Prevention
Timely steps taken to relieve symptoms, as well as eliminate the very cause of obesity, can have the best effect. Even with a decrease in body weight by at least 10-12%, it already reduces the risk of overall early mortality.
Prevention:
- Calories must be introduced into the body exactly as much as it can process. You will have to take a closer look at your own healthy eating.
- If you have a genetic predisposition, you should reduce your intake of carbohydrates and fats to a minimum.
- Plant-based and protein foods should predominate in the diet.
- Physical activity without fanaticism will help you stay in shape. You don't have to train five times a week. It will be enough to do dancing, walking, cycling, morning jogging - whatever suits your tastes.
If you don’t really see “anything”, but you are dissatisfied with your physical shape and body, you need to first go to the doctor, get examined by an endocrinologist, talk to a nutritionist. Only after this can any conclusions be drawn.
Abdominal obesity or excess fat adipose tissue in the abdominal area. With this type of fat tissue distribution, the ratio of waist volume to hip volume is calculated. If, when dividing the resulting waist circumference (in centimeters) by the hip circumference (in centimeters), the result is more than 0.95 for men and more than 0.85 for women, then the diagnosis is considered confirmed.
Abdominal obesity is considered the most prognostically unfavorable for the development of metabolic syndrome (obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension), a risk factor for the development of myocardial ischemia and stroke. Fat cells - adipocytes can accumulate not only in the subcutaneous fat in the abdominal area, but also around the internal organs.
This kind of visceral fat is the most dangerous, because... is hormonally active, causes metabolic disorders in the form of insulin resistance, and contributes to the occurrence of pathologically increased appetite. Besides, against the background of progressive obesity, functions are impaired gonads, the cardiovascular system suffers, osteoporosis progresses rapidly, etc.
The accumulation of fat in the abdominal cavity causes free fatty acids to quickly enter the bloodstream (via the portal vein system) in stressful situations. Which, when entering the liver, are either converted into glucose (which helps increase its level in the blood), or into triglycerides and atherogenic lipoproteins. Which invariably leads to the progression of atherosclerotic lesions of internal organs and non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.
In addition, substances with hormonal activity synthesized by fat cells lead to constant stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system, which indirectly manifests itself in increased synthesis of substances that contribute to increasing and maintaining high blood pressure numbers.
Abdominal obesity also leads to increased synthesis estrogen, which negatively affects reproductive function due to disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary system. Women experience menstrual irregularities and infertility. Men experience a decrease in libido and various erectile dysfunction.
As follows from the above, Abdominal obesity is not just a cosmetic problem, this is a serious disease that requires complex treatment. In addition to diet therapy, drug correction of arterial hypertension, insulin resistance and other disorders must be carried out.
It has been noted that reducing waist circumference to less than 100 cm in men and less than 85 in women reduces the risk of developing diabetes, myocardial infarction and stroke by 4-5 times!
