What is Visceral Fat? How to Reduce It?
Fat is an essential component of the human body and plays several important roles. It stores energy, protects vital internal organs, helps with insulation and body temperature regulations, hormone production etc. Though it is important to note that some amount of body fat is necessary for optimal functioning, excessive fat accumulation increases the risk of various health conditions. There are two forms of fat present in the body, i.e. Subcutaneous. This article will shed some light on visceral fat, its importance and factors contributing to its accumulation.
Defining Visceral Fat
Visceral fat refers to the fat that accumulates deep within the abdominal cavity, surrounding the internal organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines. Unlike subcutaneous fat. Which is found just beneath the skin is located deeper within the body. Its major role is to form a protective cushion around the internal organs. However, excessive amounts of visceral fat can have detrimental effects on health.
Why Do You Need to Know About Visceral Fat?
Understanding visceral fat is essential to be aware of your overall health. It is due to its association with various health risks. Unlike subcutaneous fat, which is relatively harmless, an excessive amount of visceral fat is metabolically active and releases certain chemicals or hormones that can negatively impact the body. Studies show that has link to an increased risk of developing chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.
Characteristics of Visceral Fat
1. Metabolically Active
Visceral Fat is metabolically active, meaning it is not just an inert storage depot of energy but it actively participates in various metabolic processes in the body. It releases various molecules and hormones known as adipokines, including inflammatory substances, free fatty acids, and cytokines. Studies have confirmed that these substances can impact the body and contribute to chronic low-grade inflammation, insulin resistance, and other metabolic disturbances.
2. Blood Supply
Has a rich blood supply. It is highly vascularized, meaning it has a rich network of blood vessels that supply oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to the fat tissue. Generally, it drains by the portal vein, which carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver. So, its close connection to the liver allows to release fatty acids directly into the liver, leading to increased production of triglycerides and cholesterol. This process can contribute to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
3. Hormonal Influence
Visceral fat plays a significant role in hormonal regulation. It produces hormones such as leptin, adiponectin, and resistin, which can สมัคร ufabet กับเรา รับโบนัสทันที modulate metabolism, inflammation, insulin sensitivity, and appetite regulation. Imbalances in these hormones due to excess visceral fat can contribute to metabolic disorders and chronic diseases.
4. Surrounding the Organs
The location around the organs helps in cushioning vital organs from impact. However, excessive presence adheres tightly to the organs in the abdominal cavity, wraps around and infiltrates the organs, potentially compromising their function. Excessive accumulation can cause organ compression and displacement, affecting their normal physiological processes.
5. Association with Apple Shaped Body Type
One of its characteristics is also about being associated with apple shaped body type because of excess fat accumulation around the abdomen. This distribution of fat is more common in men than women and is considered a higher-risk pattern in terms of associated health problems.