Weight loss is most easily achieved by eating fewer calories than you are burning off but, unfortunately, you can not choose where the weight drops from.
Belly fat is more difficult to shift, particularly as you age and a doctor has shared three reasons why you can't get rid of it.
Professor Franklin Joseph of Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic discussed the main reasons behind holding onto fat.
He said: “Belly fat, also known as visceral fat or bad fat, is notoriously hard to shift because it’s influenced by more than just the calories you consume versus the calories you burn. Hormones, stress and lifestyle factors also play a significant role.”
Stress can make it more difficult to shift belly fat
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Stress and cortisol
The doctor said: “Stress is a major culprit when it comes to stubborn belly fat."
Stress leads the body to release the hormone cortisol which encourages fat storage around the midriff. It can also get the in way of the body's ability to burn fat, meaning lowering stress can be a good starting point for weight loss.
The expert added: “Stress management is just as important as diet and exercise. Techniques like mindfulness, yoga or even just getting enough sleep can help lower cortisol levels and improve your fat-loss efforts.”
Poor sleep
Not sleeping enough can also wreak havoc on the body's ability to burn fat, the expert continued.
He said: “Sleep is when your body repairs and regulates key hormones like leptin and ghrelin, which control hunger and fat storage.
“Many people underestimate how much sleep impacts their weight loss. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep a night.”
Hormone imbalance
Any hormone imbalances in general can get in the way of fat-burning efforts, despite any diet and exercise efforts.
Dr Frank said: "Conditions like PCOS with underlying insulin resistance or an underactive thyroid can disrupt your metabolism and prevent effective fat loss.
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Slimmers must pair a healthy diet with other lifestyle factors to get rid of belly fat
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“If you suspect a hormonal imbalance, consult a healthcare professional for tests. Treating these conditions can make a dramatic difference in your results.”
While it can be disheartening to see slow results, dieters are encouraged to take note of the above advice and stick with it. Dr Frank added: "A calorie deficit is just one piece of the puzzle.
“You need to consider your stress levels, sleep habits and overall health. Belly fat is stubborn, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to make progress.
“Don’t expect overnight results. Focus on building sustainable habits and you’ll see changes over time."
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