Visceral Fat: Symptoms and Care

Visceral fat is a type of fat that accumulates around internal organs in the abdominal cavity. Unlike subcutaneous fat found just beneath the skin, visceral fat poses a higher health risk. Excessive visceral fat can lead to various health issues, such as an increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Managing visceral fat through lifestyle changes like diet and exercise is crucial for overall health and well-being.

What are the Symptoms of Visceral Fat

Visceral fat is a type of body fat that surrounds internal organs. It can lead to various health issues and is associated with specific symptoms. These symptoms may manifest differently in individuals, impacting overall well-being. Identifying and addressing visceral fat is crucial for maintaining good health.

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

Causes of Visceral Fat

Visceral fat can accumulate due to various factors such as unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, genetics, hormonal imbalances, and stress. Additionally, age and certain medical conditions can also contribute to the buildup of visceral fat in the body. It is essential to address these causes to reduce visceral fat and lower the associated health risks.

  • Poor diet
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Genetics
  • Hormonal changes
  • Lack of sleep
  • Stress
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Aging
  • Smoking

Types of Visceral Fat

Visceral fat refers to the fat that accumulates around internal organs in the abdominal cavity. There are various types or forms of visceral fat that can impact overall health and increase the risk of certain diseases. Understanding the different types of visceral fat can help individuals make informed decisions about their lifestyle choices and health goals.

  • Subcutaneous Fat: Located just beneath the skin, subcutaneous fat serves as insulation and energy storage for the body.
  • Mesenteric Fat: Surrounding the intestines, mesenteric fat plays a role in supporting and protecting the abdominal organs.
  • Omental Fat: Found in the omentum, a fatty tissue layer covering the abdominal organs, omental fat can release inflammatory substances affecting metabolic health.
  • Pericardial Fat: Located around the heart, pericardial fat has been linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • Renal Fat: Situated around the kidneys, renal fat may be associated with conditions like hypertension and kidney disease.

Risk Factors

Visceral fat accumulation can be influenced by various factors that contribute to its development. These risk factors can increase the likelihood of excess visceral fat storage in the body, leading to potential health complications. Understanding these factors is crucial for managing visceral fat levels and promoting overall health and well-being.

  • Genetics
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Poor diet
  • Stress
  • Lack of sleep
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Age
  • Smoking
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Medical conditions such as PCOS

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

schedule apointment Schedule Your Appointment

Diagnosis of Visceral Fat

Visceral fat is typically diagnosed through various methods that focus on assessing the amount of fat stored around the internal organs in the abdomen. These diagnostic approaches aim to accurately measure the presence and distribution of visceral fat in the body. 

Healthcare providers may use different tools and techniques to evaluate visceral fat levels, allowing them to assess the potential health risks associated with excessive visceral fat accumulation. By utilizing specialized assessments, practitioners can determine the extent of visceral fat and its impact on overall health and well-being.

  • Waist circumference measurement
  • Body mass index (BMI) calculation
  • Dualenergy Xray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan
  • Computed tomography (CT) scan
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)
  • Waisttohip ratio calculation
  • Waisttoheight ratio calculation

Treatment for Visceral Fat

Visceral fat, also known as belly fat, surrounds internal organs and can pose health risks. Treatment options for reducing visceral fat involve lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity. 

These methods can help lower overall body fat, including visceral fat. In some cases, medication or surgical interventions may be considered for individuals struggling to lose visceral fat through lifestyle modifications. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any treatment regimen for visceral fat.

  • Diet Modification: Eating a balanced diet low in sugar and processed foods can help reduce visceral fat by promoting weight loss and improving metabolism.
  • Regular Exercise: Engaging in aerobic and strength training exercises can help burn calories, reduce visceral fat, and build muscle mass, leading to a healthier body composition.
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress can contribute to visceral fat accumulation, so practicing stressreducing techniques like meditation or yoga can help lower cortisol levels and aid in fat loss.
  • Adequate Sleep: Getting sufficient quality sleep is crucial for regulating hormones involved in metabolism and appetite control, which can impact visceral fat levels.
  • Medications: In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe medications to help manage visceral fat, particularly for individuals at high risk of obesityrelated complications.
Find Our Specialists
Book Doctor Appointment
Book Free Appointment

Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!

040-68334455

Frequently Asked Questions

What is visceral fat?

Visceral fat is a type of fat that surrounds the internal organs in the abdominal cavity. It is considered harmful to health and linked to various chronic diseases.

How does visceral fat differ from subcutaneous fat?

Visceral fat is located deep within the abdomen and surrounds the organs, while subcutaneous fat is found just beneath the skin. Visceral fat poses a higher health risk compared to subcutaneous fat.

What health risks are associated with excess visceral fat?

Excess visceral fat has been linked to an increased risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

Can visceral fat be reduced through diet and exercise?

Yes, adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce visceral fat over time.

How can one measure visceral fat levels?

Visceral fat levels can be assessed through imaging techniques like MRI or CT scans, as well as bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) or waist circumference measurements.

Book Appointment Second Opinion WhatsApp Health Packages Find Doctors

Feeling unwell?

Request a callback!