Blog

Belly Fat Help

Posted on by Paula Gallagher

It is difficult to "spot" reduce any specific area, including the abdomen. Belly fat is a common complaint (particularly among women) and can increase with age due to decreased estrogen levels, which affect body fat distribution. The trouble with belly fat is that it is not limited to subcutaneous fat (an extra layer of padding below the skin). It also includes visceral fat which lies deep inside your abdomen. Visceral fat produces various hormones and substances that can increase blood pressure, negatively impact cholesterol, and create insulin resistance. This in turn increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and breast and colon cancer. Key factors that need to be addressed include consuming a healthy diet (whole foods including fresh fruit, vegetables, healthy fats, whole grains and lean protein), regular exercise (ideally a combination of weight training/resistance and aerobic (activities such as brisk walking, jogging, biking, etc.), and a few basic supplements to aid the weight loss process. If you are eating well, exercising and still having difficulty getting rid of your muffin top, a supplement may be helpful. Keep in mind that different supplements work differently. For example, some are thermogenics (increase metabolism), some can help control blood sugar levels, while others can decrease appetite and/or cravings. Here are some options. Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) and Green Tea Extract: These two ingredients are scientifically proven to naturally stimulate your metabolic rate and promote the reduction of body fat, especially in the abdominal area. They can also enhance lean muscle growth, which is not only important for weight loss, but essential for healthy aging. Garcinia Cambogia and Chromium: Dr. Oz endorses Garcinia cambogia for its weight management benefits. Research led by Dr. Harry Preuss at Georgetown University demonstrated that Garcinia cambogia can be three times more effective than diet and exercise alone, showing that it works both by suppressing appetite and by reducing body fat. Adrenal Support: When we’re stressed, we’re also secreting the stress hormone cortisol. One of the things cortisol will do is drive fat storage... right around your middle. Taking nutrients that help the body to adapt to stressful challenges can greatly help to restore energy and vitality. Before taking any of these supplements, talk to one of the knowledgeable people at Village Green Apothecary, to see what is best for you. Photo from here, with thanks.
← Older Post Newer Post →