Causes of Excess Body Fat
When you consume more calories than your daily recommended intake, you will gain weight as excess calories are stored as fat. Other causes for excess body fat can be:
Poor diet
Consuming a high-calorie diet rich in unhealthy fats and sugars, like deep fried food, beer, or processed meat, can contribute to weight gain.
Sedentary lifestyle
Lack of physical activity and long hours of sitting can lead to weight gain.
Genetics
Your weight may depend on your genes, as studies show that genes account for 25% to 80% of the predisposition to be overweight.
Hormonal factors
Hormonal imbalances, such as those seen in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can increase the risk of being overweight and obese.
When weight gain becomes visible, some people may experience reduced flexibility and mobility. Some will also have low self-esteem and body image dissatisfaction.
Types of Body Fat
There are three main types of body fat:
- Essential fat: The key fatty acids that help maintain a healthy, functional body.
- Subcutaneous fat: This type of fat takes up most of our body fat and lies just beneath the skin. It tends to accumulate in areas such as the hips, buttocks, thighs, and abdomen.
- Visceral fat: Visceral fat is located deep within the abdominal cavity. It stores energy for later use and protects vital organs. A high level of visceral fat can increase the risk of various health conditions.
Treatment Options for Weight Loss
If you are looking to lose body fat for a slimmer figure, here is what you can do:
Medication
Some prescriptions given by certified health care professionals can help curb appetites so that patients have lesser food cravings. However, discontinuing the medication may lead to weight gain.
Bariatric surgery
This procedure is typically recommended for patients with severe obesity and weight-related health conditions when traditional methods such as diet and exercise have been ineffective. It leads to a more dramatic weight loss by shortening a part of the small intestine.
Liposuction
This is a surgical option that removes between 4-6 kg of excess, stubborn fat through small cuts for a better body shape.
Non-invasive treatments
Cryolipolysis (fat freezing), laser lipolysis, or radiofrequency therapy are less complicated procedures that can target and reduce fat in specific areas while tightening the skin.
Preventing Weight Gain
Maintaining a healthy weight is not just for looking good but also for overall health and well-being. It is essential to have a balanced diet and to regularly exercise to maintain a healthy weight. You should also drink an adequate amount of water daily and avoid unhealthy habits like heavy alcohol consumption or abnormal sleep cycles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can spot reduction exercises target specific areas of body fat?
Spot reduction is a myth. There is no scientific proof that you can spot reduce fat in a particular area through exercise or diet alone. However, the combination of both can help you achieve overall fat reduction and tone your muscle.
Are body fat reduction treatments safe?
Body fat reduction treatments are generally safe with minimal side effects. Ensure that these treatments are performed by qualified aesthetic professionals who have expertise in such procedures. Additionally, factors like your body mass index (BMI) and any underlying health conditions should be taken into consideration before undergoing such treatments.
Will fat reduction treatments provide permanent results?
Fat reduction treatments aim to dissolve fat cells, resulting in long-lasting results. Still, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent the accumulation of new fat cells.
Take charge of your own health! If you are ready to embark on a transformative journey towards a healthy body and glowing skin, our professional team at Maple Clinic is here to provide you with a comprehensive range of services and one-to-one guidance to meet your every need. Make your first step towards a more confident and positive you! Book a free consultation at Maple Clinic to know more.
Find us here or call us at +6012 385 7963.