The body needs at least a small level of visceral fat for two reasons: protection and motor fuel. Abdominal fat acts as a protective layer for the abdominal organs and as a reserve source of energy. However, if a person has too much visceral fat, usually as a result of inactivity and poor diet, it can increase the risk of a number of conditions. These include heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
Subsequently, if a person can reduce their visceral fat levels to healthy levels, they can reduce their risks of these conditions.
There are two methods that, when used together, can help a person reduce their visceral fat.
Exercise, at least 150 minutes a week, and a balanced diet can help a person improve their fitness.
However, there is debate about whether cardio (running, biking, swimming, walking) or resistance (using weights) is the most effective form of exercise to combat visceral fat.
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TO study published in the International Journal of Obesity may have the answer: it’s both.
Published in 2015, the researchers concluded: “Our findings show that both physical training modalities, whether performed separately or in combination, reduced abdominal subcutaneous fat.”
The effectiveness of the combination of both forms of exercise was found to be particularly effective in adolescents trying to lose weight.
Whether it’s lifting weights at the gym, going for a run or cycling around London, any exercise can help reduce visceral fat.
DO NOT MISS IT
Meanwhile, a “weight loss punch” delivered on the NHS is now available from the Boots chain.
The NHS describes Saxenda, also known as liraglutide, as a “weight loss medicine that works by making you feel fuller and less hungry”.
Previously, a patient could only take the drug if prescribed by their GP.
However, it is available for purchase at Boots and Lloyds pharmacies; a person who wishes to purchase the drug can only do so after having requested an online consultation.
Previously approved in 2017, Saxenda has only recently been approved for use by the NHS.
The NHS recommends that Saxenda “is not recommended if you are pregnant or nursing or have certain health conditions such as liver or kidney problems”.
After a patient is prescribed liraglutide for the first time, they will have a review with their GP after three months.
If they have lost at least five percent of their body weight, they will be advised to continue with their prescription.
To obtain Saxenda, a patient must meet certain criteria related to their age, BMI, and whether they have tried other weight loss methods.
A Commons Library report published early last year on obesity statistics in the UK found that more than a quarter of the population was obese.
Furthermore, it is estimated that more than 64 per cent of British adults are overweight, with a BMI of 25 or higher.
For more information on reducing visceral fat and losing weight, contact the NHS or ask your GP.
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