What is Visceral Fat?

What is Visceral Fat?

Visceral fat is a type of fat that is stored within the abdominal cavity and surrounds the internal organs. Unlike subcutaneous fat, which is located just below the skin and can be easily seen and felt, visceral fat is not visible from the outside and is often referred to as "hidden" or "belly" fat. Despite its hidden location, high levels of visceral fat can have significant health implications and are associated with a range of serious health problems.

Health Implications of Visceral Fat

Visceral fat is more biologically active than subcutaneous fat, meaning it secretes hormones and other substances that can negatively impact the body's health. High levels of visceral fat have been linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. This is because visceral fat can increase insulin resistance, which is a precursor to type 2 diabetes, and also increases the risk of developing metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

In addition, visceral fat can also increase inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are associated with a range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer. Furthermore, high levels of visceral fat can also increase the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver and can lead to liver damage and cirrhosis.

Measuring Visceral Fat

Measuring the levels of visceral fat is important for understanding the potential health risks associated with excessive fat accumulation. While subcutaneous fat can be easily seen and felt, visceral fat is not visible from the outside and can only be measured using techniques such as body imaging scans.

One of the most accurate and reliable ways to measure body fat is through a DEXA (Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) scan. This type of scan uses low-dose X-rays to accurately measure the density of body fat, bone and muscle, and provides information on the distribution of fat in the body, including the amount of subcutaneous fat and visceral fat.

The Importance of Monitoring Visceral Fat

Monitoring the levels of visceral fat is important for maintaining good health and preventing the development of serious health problems. By regularly measuring body fat levels, individuals can track their progress and make necessary lifestyle changes to reduce the amount of visceral fat in their body. This can include adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing stress levels.

What Does This All Mean?

Visceral fat is a type of fat that is stored within the abdominal cavity and surrounds the internal organs. High levels of visceral fat have been linked to a range of serious health problems, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Measuring the levels of visceral fat is important for understanding the potential health risks associated with excessive fat accumulation, and regular monitoring can help individuals track their progress and make necessary lifestyle changes to reduce the amount of visceral fat in their body.

For accurate and reliable measurement of body fat levels, including the amount of visceral fat, consider a DEXA scan from BodySpec. BodySpec's state-of-the-art imaging technology provides a detailed analysis of body composition, allowing individuals to monitor their progress and make informed decisions about their health.

Get a Test to Understand Your Level

Measuring and reducing visceral fat is important for maintaining good health. Waist circumference and body composition scans can help you determine the amount of visceral fat you have, and a combination of diet, exercise, and sleep can help you reduce it.

You can measure your body fat and composition, lean mass gains and losses over time, and bone health, by getting regular DEXA scans. DEXA scans can help you pinpoint regional changes in your muscle and fat as you work towards your goals. Your data will accrue and compare side by side in your BodySpec reports, so you can stay on track to being your best self. Book an appointment today!