More than 40% of U.S. adults are considered obese. That’s according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
But doctors and health experts say there are different types of fat. Some are more dangerous than others, so it’s important to know what type you’re carrying around.
Subcutaneous fat is the type just beneath the skin that you can pinch.
While the more dangerous kind, visceral fat, is buried deep within the abdomen. It’s typically stored around your belly and can wrap itself around your organs, trigger inflammation, and contribute to several health problems.
“Visceral fat has shown to increase all major chronic diseases,” said Julia Zumpano, registered dietitian at Cleveland Clinic.
Getting rid of that deep belly fat can help you be healthier, and experts say being active is key.
“If we’re sitting at a desk all day and we’re only doing 30 minutes of exercise, but we’re doing it every day, it’s still really not enough for most people,” Zumpano explained.
Experts say work movement into your daily life. Trying a walking desk, taking breaks to go for a walk, doing squats at your desk, wearing a weighted vest, taking the stairs, or parking further away all can help.
The next key? A healthy diet.
“Belly fat can be increased by artificial and sugary foods,” said Zumpano.
So, be sure to steer away from sweets and toward whole foods, like lean sources of protein and fresh fruits and veggies.
“Plant-based diets, Mediterranean diets, have been shown to be very helpful when it comes to reducing inflammation and visceral fat,” Zumpano added.
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