Although smokers often weigh less than non-smokers, they also have more abdominal fat! Problem: This type of localized fat can cause serious health problems.
Generally, smokers have a lower body weight than non-smokers. But according to researchers at the University of Copenhagen (Denmark), they also have more abdominal fat and visceral fat. This visceral fat is the fat located deep in the abdominal cavity. It surrounds important organs, such as the stomach, liver and intestines. It therefore differs from subcutaneous fat, located just under the skin. However, it is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and dementiadementia.
By working on several studies concerning GenoaGenoa linked to smoking habits and body fat distribution, the authors of the study published in the journal Addiction observed that “Smoking throughout your life could lead to an increase in abdominal fat. In further analysis, we also found that the type of fat that is increasing is more likely visceral fat”.
Another important element, “the influence of smoking on abdominal fat appears to occur independently of other factors such as socioeconomic status or alcohol consumption”.
A dangerous fat for your health!
The problem with visceral fat is that, unlike love handles, it is not visible and can cause serious complications. So, a person with a body mass indexbody mass index A normal person may have a high level of visceral fat.
So how do you know if you have it? As Livi Health Centers points out on their site, “the most obvious indicator of excess visceral fat is an ‘apple’ shaped body shape, in which your waist appears wider than your thighs.”
Measuring the waist-hip ratio (WHR) can also be effective. To calculate it, divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement. According to’World Health OrganizationWorld Health Organization (WHO), the waist-hip ratio should, to avoid complications, be greater than 0.85 for women and 0.90 for men.
The best way to lose visceral fat is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. In short, by adopting a balanced diet, by practicing an activity physicalphysicaland therefore… by stopping smoking!
