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You can carry extra weight just about anywhere on your body. But when it’s located around your waist, it may have some particularly serious consequences for your health. Deep belly fat is called visceral fat. It produces proteins and hormones that can lead to higher levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), aka “bad” cholesterol, as well as high blood sugar, blood pressure, and triglycerides. It's also a player in insulin resistance and inflammation.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a few simple changes to your lifestyle, you can lose pounds, trim your midsection, and boost your overall well-being.
Sources: Johns Hopkins Medicine. The Skinny on Vi... + 12
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- Wang W, Li J, Chen X, et al. Whole grain food diet slightly reduces cardiovascular risks in obese/overweight adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Cardiovasc Disord. 2020;20(1):82.
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- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Assessing your weight. Page last reviewed June 3, 2022.
