One popular method involves 24-hour fasts once or twice per week. Another consists of fasting every day for 16 hours and eating all your food within an 8-hour period. Sugar-sweetened beverages are high in added sugars like fructose, which can contribute to belly fat. What’s more, women who already have a large waist tend to produce more cortisol in response to stress. Increased cortisol further adds to fat gain around the middle (21). Stress can make you gain belly fat by triggering the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, also known as the stress hormone.
A growing belly is the most obvious sign of visceral fat, but that can indicate subcutaneous fat as well. Some studies show if you have a potbelly ‘ or are more ‘apple-shaped’ than ‘pear-shaped’ ‘ you may have more visceral fat. Toning your abdomen after pregnancy may pose additional challenges. Wait until you get clearance from your doctor before jumping into any kind of diet and exercise routine.
If you have been struggling to lose belly fat despite trying various diets and exercises, it may be time to consult with your doctor for guidance. While many people turn to fad diets or extreme workout routines in an attempt to shed the stubborn belly fat, a doctor can provide personalized advice and recommendations based on your individual health profile.
Medical Evaluation
According to the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans, it’s recommended to limit alcohol intake to two drinks or fewer per day for men and one drink or fewer per day for women (13). Many health organizations use body mass index (BMI) to classify weight and predict the risk of metabolic disease. Complex carbs, on the other hand, can fuel your body with all-important fiber and without negative effects on your blood sugar. They also contain vitamins and minerals that your body needs. Processed carbs have had the fiber stripped away and can cause your blood sugar to spike. They include things like white bread, pasta, chips and crackers.
We’re fully funded by the people, via an optional membership. Walking is a moderate-intensity exercise that can be easily incorporated into your daily life. In fact, physical activity has been shown to improve your mood and decrease feelings of stress, depression, and anxiety (23, 24). Your body needs energy (in the form of calories) for all the complex chemical reactions that allow you to move, breathe, think, and function. In fact, walking is not just good for you ‘ it’s one of the easiest forms of exercise to incorporate into your day-to-day life. You’ll have a review after taking liraglutide for 3 months, or after taking semaglutide for 6 months.
When you visit your doctor to discuss your weight loss goals, they will likely start by conducting a thorough medical evaluation to assess your overall health and identify any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your difficulty in losing belly fat. Your doctor may also order blood tests or other diagnostic tests to determine if there are any hormonal imbalances or metabolic issues that need to be addressed.
Many observational studies show that people who eat more protein tend to have less abdominal fat than those who eat a lower protein diet (16, 17, 18). The trouble with belly fat is that it’s not limited to the layer of padding just below the skin. And that lies deep inside the abdomen and surrounds the internal organs. Eating before bed is one of those less-than-healthy habits that a lot of us fall into. But kicking late-night snacking to the curb can be a helpful way to help lose belly fat. And choosing the right carbs can help you lose belly fat and keep your body healthy.
This makes walking an excellent choice, as it’s a moderate-intensity exercise. That’s likely to motivate you to walk more, rather than give up. To increase the intensity of your walk and burn even more calories, try walking on routes with hills or slight inclines (13). Furthermore, people who are more physically active burn more calories than those who are sedentary (7, 8). Children over the age of 5 should ideally get at least 60 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise a day, such as running or playing football or netball. Sedentary activities, such as watching television and playing computer games, should be restricted.
Customized Plan
Based on the results of your medical evaluation, your doctor will work with you to create a customized weight loss plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. This may include dietary recommendations, exercise plans, and possibly medication or other interventions to help you lose belly fat in a safe and sustainable way.
- Your doctor can provide guidance on portion control and meal planning to help you make healthier food choices and reduce your calorie intake.
- They can recommend specific types of exercises or physical activities that are most effective for targeting belly fat and improving overall fitness.
- Your doctor can monitor your progress and make adjustments to your weight loss plan as needed to ensure you are on track to meet your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it necessary to see a doctor for weight loss?
While it is possible to lose weight without consulting a doctor, seeking medical guidance can help you achieve better results and avoid potential health risks.
- Will my doctor prescribe medication for weight loss?
Depending on your individual situation, your doctor may recommend prescription medication as part of your weight loss plan. However, this is typically reserved for cases where diet and exercise alone are not effective.
