A fairly ordinary condition that is found mostly in women is belly fat. It may be caused by hereditary or fluctuating hormones in the individual. There are many unhealthy affects that can be experienced with this excess fat and are noted as diabetes, certain types of cancers, and cardiovascular disease. These are just some to name a few. Knowing how to lose belly fat can help prevent not only the added weight, but the adverse health effects as well.

As you age, your metabolism slows down and this causes you to gain weight. The number one contributor to this is menopause. Fat deposits seem to distribute to the belly area from the legs, hips, and arms. While it affects mostly women, men are also affected by this issue.

Hormones change during this process which contributes to the problem. Since hormones play an important roll is getting rid of fat, this change causes fat deposits to gather in the belly. Less exercise and physical fitness along with hereditary can contribute as well.

Excessive weight in the abdominal area is a bigger problem than just having a few extra pounds or an ego crusher. It is actually unhealthier than if it were located on other parts of the body. There are several health risks to the individual if left untreated. These include breast cancer, hypertension, colorectal cancer, problems with the gallbladder, and diabetes. There is also a greater risk for heart disease and problems with the cardiovascular system.

There are ways to determine if this issue is affecting you. To find out, simply measure yourself from waist to hip. A body mass index calculation can provide you with results although for menopausal women, this may not always be accurate. To measure, circle a tape measure around your waist. This should be done at your belly button. Do not hold your breath or try to suck in. If the results are thirty five inches or more, you should try to lose a few pounds as this size is noted as being unhealthy. Studies have shown that no matter what your weight might be, a person who has a measurement of thirty three inches or more is considered to be at risk.

It is thought that the fat you can see and grab is the main problem and the unhealthy fat. This is not correct. This type of fat is unappealing but does not pose a risk. It's the visceral fat that is the main problem. Lying deep within the belly and in between the organs, this type should be a concern to you.

There is a simple solution that is effective at treating the problem, a healthier lifestyle. By eating right and exercising on a routine basis, the tummy fat will begin to disappear. The type of fat burning plan varies between individuals and should be discussed with your doctor. He will determine what is right for you. When you are planning meals, cut out excess sugar and saturated fats. Eat more fruits and vegetables, decrease the amount of simple carbohydrates like white bread and control food portions and calorie intake.