Abdominal fat is linked to heart disease and type two diabetes. Women who have waists that are larger than 34 inches and men whow are more than 40-inches around the mid-section are reported to be at the greatest risk for heart disease.

Is abdominal fat dangerous?

Abdominal fat can be dangerous if it is located around key organs of the body like the liver. This is often referred to as visceral fat but is less common than just having a few excess pounds around the-mid section.

What causes belly fat?

Belly fat is largely caused by an imbalance in your diet and exercise routine. Individuals who consume more calories than they expend will gather weight around their midsection.

It is also common to find sedentary indviduals having more abdominal fat than those who are active. This combination of diet and exercise, or lack thereof, is a major contributor to abdominal fat.

Is it possible for older people to lose abdominal fat?

Although some people do gain more weight as they age, this is a function of a more sedentary lifestyle. If individuals want to get rid of body fat, they need to manage their diet and exercise effectively. By maintaining the same activity level, they can maintain their abdominal settings.

Is exercise the only thing that will help me?

Exercise provides a variety of healthy benefits. If you're getting rid of abdominal fat through diet alone, it will be difficult to lose those last few pounds. The reason why exercise is so effective is because it reduces stress and insulin levels. When you have more fat around your mid-section, you ave more insulin which generates counter-regulatory hormones. The result is more fat in your abdominal area.

What kind of diet can reduce belly fat?

Foods themselves aren't the problem, rather it's food ingredients that can get you way off track. Scientists have recently discovered that trans fats have a way of adding to the fat deposit around your waste. Make sure to check food labels and limit your intake of trans fats. Crackers and cookies are usually loaded with them. If you need to splurge, do so in moderation.

Certain foods you should consumer, others to avoid.

Vegetables provide a good number of healthy benefits. A diet rich in vegetables ensures that you are receiving important vitamins and minerals.

Whole grains including the right cereals, oatmeal, etc. can fill you up and keep the fat off - especially around the mid-section. Focus on consuming whole grains in place of simple sugars.

Healthy oils are the way to go. Canola, flaxseed, and other oils should be used in place of common cooking oils. Healthy oils contain omega 3 fatty acids, and when used in moderation, can help your overall health.

Nuts are a great source of fatty acids as well. Almonds seem to have the most health benefits and are easy to take with you. Pack a small bag of almonds a few times a week to get your healthy fats.

Will it take forever for me to lose weight around my abdomen?

For many people, losing the last few pounds that usually gather around the waist, are the most difficult. However, if using the proper exercises and diet, weight loss can happen steadily over time. It is best to lose abdominal fat slowly as it will be more difficult to put back on.