4 Health Benefits of Losing That Extra Belly Fat

Updated on September 13, 2020

Obesity is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. For one thing, it makes you more likely to have high blood pressure and cholesterol, which can result in heart disease.

Not only that, but it can lead to digestive problems, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, even cancer.

Fortunately, it is possible to reach and stay at a healthy weight—it might just take a bit of effort.

Thinking of dropping a few pounds? Want to know what the health benefits associated with that are? If so, you’re in the right place. Keep reading to learn more!

What Is Belly Fat? 

Belly fat, also known as visceral fat, is the fat that’s stored within the abdominal cavity. That is, it’s located near the stomach, liver, and intestines.

Considering that, you can’t always see or feel it; the only way to know for sure is if you get an MRI or CT scan.

Like we said earlier, however, you can lose it. Visit Better Off for tips on how to lose belly fat in a week without exercising.

4 Health Benefits of Losing Belly Fat 

Losing belly fat comes with many health benefits. Here’s what you need to know.

1. It’ll Improve Your Sleep

Obesity greatly increases your risk of sleep problems such as snoring and insomnia. Given that, it’s not surprising to know that losing the weight can improve your shut-eye.

In fact, studies have shown that reductions in belly fat are actually one of the best predictors of improved sleep.

2. It’ll Improve Your Breathing

Carrying excess weight around the middle of the abdomen can impair lung function. More specifically, the fat can push on the diaphragm and chest wall.

As a result, it will be harder for the lungs to fill with air. Not to mention that the weight of the fat will also decrease the amount of space for air in the lungs.

By losing the belly fat, you’ll be able to breathe much easier.

3. It’ll Lower Your Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Belly fat greatly increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. Not only will it affect your cholesterol levels, but it’ll also interfere with your blood vessels.

Generally speaking, the less visceral fat you have, the easier it is for your blood to flow through the body.

4. It’ll Lower Your Risk of Dementia 

Studies have shown that belly fat is associated with an increased risk of dementia. While the exact cause is unknown, it may have to do with the fact that it increases the risk of cardiovascular diabetes and diabetes.

If anything, that’s another reason to eat better and exercise more.

Losing That Extra Belly Fat 

And there you have it—four health benefits of losing that extra belly fat. As you can see, there’s more than one reason why you want to shed those pounds!

For more health tips, make sure to check out the rest of our blog!

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