Abdominal fat is not only a concern related to physical appearance or extra pounds, but is a real risk factor for metabolic health, warns Dr. Alexandru Nechifor, specialist in internal medicine.
Abdominal fat is dangerous PHOTO: Archive, The Truth
The doctor explains that the real danger comes from visceral fat – the deep deposit between the internal organs, “a metabolically active tissue that strongly influences the health of the entire organism“. “Visceral fat produces inflammation, affects the liver and pancreas, disrupts hormones and dramatically increases the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease”says Dr. Nechifor.
His findings are supported by studies published in ISI journals such as the Journal of Obesity, where researchers show that excess intra-abdominal fat is a strong predictor of insulin resistance and chronic inflammation.
In clinical practice, the doctor increasingly observes patients with apparently normal weight, but with a high level of visceral fat. “Abdominal circumference gives us the first clue,” he explained.
“Even a difference of a few centimeters can completely change the risk profile,” claims Dr. Nechifor.
Doctor Alexandu Nechifor PHOTO: Personal Archive
Recent research also brings other worrying conclusions. Studies in “Frontiers in Nutrition” demonstrate that fat distribution is more important than total weight: a normal weight individual, but with high visceral fat, may have a metabolic risk comparable to or even greater than an obese person.
In parallel, data published in the Journal of Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis show that visceral fat more accurately predicts insulin resistance than BMI – the commonly used indicator.
The good news is that this type of fat responds quickly to lifestyle changes. “A weight loss of just 5–10% can significantly reduce visceral stores,” says Dr. Nechifor.
Brisk walking, strength training, cutting back on sugar and refined carbohydrates, along with adequate sleep, are simple but highly effective steps. “Patients are surprised to see how quickly tests change when they are consistent,” says the doctor.
Among the myths that the doctor tries to dispel most often is that “if you can’t see it, it doesn’t exist”.
The reality is exactly the opposite. “Invisible fat is the most dangerous. It doesn’t hurt, it doesn’t bother, but over time it triggers preventable diseases.” claims the doctor.
The doctor points out that the fight against abdominal fat is essentially a fight for prevention.
“The sooner we understand this type of fat, the more effectively we can intervene. We already have solid research data, now it’s up to us to turn it into action.” concludes Dr. Nechifor.
