Visceral fat is a type of fat found deep within your abdominal cavity, surrounding important organs like your stomach, liver, and intestines. It's different from subcutaneous fat, which sits just below your skin. Visceral fat is considered more dangerous to your health because it can increase your risk of developing chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Here are some key characteristics of visceral fat:
- Location: Deep within the abdominal cavity, surrounding internal organs.
- Appearance: Unlike subcutaneous fat, it isn't visible under the skin.
- Health Risks: Associated with increased risk of chronic diseases.
There are many ways to reduce visceral fat, including:
- Losing weight: If you're above a healthy weight range, losing weight can help reduce visceral fat.
- Maintaining a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help.
- Regular exercise: Physical activity helps burn calories and increase muscle mass, which can contribute to reducing visceral fat.