Belly fat is more dangerous than fat on arms and thighs

Not all body fat is the same. While fat stored on the arms, hips and thighs is often considered less harmful, excess fat around the abdomen – commonly known as belly fat – can pose serious health risks. Medical experts have long warned that abdominal obesity is closely linked to several chronic diseases, making it more dangerous than fat stored in other parts of the body.
Belly fat includes two types of fat: subcutaneous fat, which lies just beneath the skin, and visceral fat, which surrounds internal organs such as the liver, pancreas and intestines. It is visceral fat that is particularly harmful. Unlike fat on the thighs or arms, visceral fat is metabolically active and releases inflammatory chemicals and hormones that can interfere with normal body functions.
People with excess abdominal fat may appear to have a protruding waistline or an “apple-shaped” body. Even individuals who are not extremely overweight can carry dangerous levels of visceral fat.
Excess belly fat raises blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, all of which contribute to cardiovascular disease. Visceral fat can also increase inflammation in blood vessels, making heart attacks and strokes more likely. Abdominal fat affects how the body uses insulin. This can lead to insulin resistance, where cells stop responding properly to insulin, causing blood sugar levels to rise. As a result, people with larger waistlines are at greater risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Fat stored around abdominal organs can affect liver function and may contribute to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Excess visceral fat is also linked with digestive disorders and metabolic syndrome.
Belly fat produces hormones and inflammatory substances that can disrupt the body’s metabolism. Chronic inflammation has been associated with several illnesses, including certain cancers and hormonal disorders.