Elisha Danine, Nutritionist for the January 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge provides some information on different types of belly fat so you can work out what you might need to focus on and why:
There are a whole host of medical, environmental and genetic reasons why we find it hard to lose weight. Although science tells us it’s calories in vs energy out. For most that have struggled with eating a good diet and exercising profusely, you know it can’t be true. I’ve outlined some of the common reasons why you may be having trouble shifting that belly fat.
Higher number of fat cells
You can shrink fat cells through healthy eating and exercise – but fat cells in actual fact don’t die. Therefore if you have been obese in the past, it is easier for you to regain the weight. It basically means that you must be more vigilant in a leading a healthy lifestyle with the main focus being on what you eat.
Underactive thyroid/Iodine Deficiency
According to researchers, Iodine consumption has dropped in Australia. This affects the level of thyroid hormone and can lead to a slower basal metabolic rate (BMR). Iodine is essential in making thyroid hormones and during pregnancy we transfer iodine to the foetus for adequate development. The National health and medical research council recommends iodine supplementation during pregnancy. For non-pregnant women iodised salt can be used (as long as there is no high blood pressure or salt restriction) along with fortified bread, (not including organic). Seaweeds are also high in iodine as are marine foods, including regular fish (e.g. tinned salmon) and shell fish (e.g. oysters). Please note, women with pre-existing thyroid conditions should not take iodine supplements until they have checked with their doctor.
Adipose/Visceral fat
Adipose fat is located all around the body and internal organs. This type of fat is a major endocrine and secretory organ that releases protein signals called adipokines. This is linked to development of obesity, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. This fat can also impair insulin signalling – which results in higher insulin levels and in turn higher fat storage and reduced fat oxidation. People that lead a sedentary lifestyle with diets high in refined sugars, processed foods and saturated fat are at most risk of having high levels of adipose fat.
Hormones
Leptin – A protein that acts as a hormone in helping to prevent obesity by regulating appetite. Very few people are deficient in this hormone.
Ghrelin – A protein secreted by stomach cells and promotes positive energy balance by stimulating appetite and promoting efficient energy storage. In a condition called ‘Prader-willi syndrome’ – ghrelin levels stay high after eating, which promotes an excessive appetite. People with this syndrome would find it difficult to lose weight.
A lack of sleep can also increase ghrelin levels and decrease leptin – therefore increasing appetite and decreasing satiety levels. This may explain correlations made between lack of sleep and a high BMI (Body Mass Index).
Stress response/elevated cortisol
When cortisol is chronically elevated due to stress, it turns our bodies into fat storing machines. This is because elevated cortisol levels increase the activity of the major fat storing enzyme – lipoprotein lipase (LPL). Cortisol also makes the body more insulin resistant. This means the body will need to release more insulin to get the job done. This can lead to greater fat storage, and the slowed release of fat will also be worsened.
Elisha Danine, (BSc Compl. Med., Adv. Dip. Nut. Med.)