What many dismiss as a simple “belly bulge” or “beer belly” — commonly known as "al-karsh" — can in fact be a warning sign of serious health issues. While some may joke about it or consider it a normal sign of weight gain, abdominal bloating may be the first visible indicator of deeper health problems.
اضافة اعلان
Belly fat doesn't just involve the visible fat under the skin. More dangerously, it often signifies the accumulation of visceral fat — the deep fat that wraps around vital organs. This type of fat, although hidden, is considered the most dangerous as it significantly increases the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
So how can you tell if your belly fat poses a serious health risk? Here are 7 warning signs to watch for:
1. Waist Circumference Measurement
Measure your waist between your hip bone and the bottom of your ribs while exhaling naturally.
If it exceeds 94 cm (37 inches) for men or 80 cm (31.5 inches) for women, it indicates a higher health risk — regardless of overall weight.
2. Persistent Fatigue
Feeling constantly tired without a clear reason could be a sign of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), caused by fat buildup in the liver. If left untreated, it may progress to liver fibrosis or cirrhosis.
3. Joint Pain
Excess weight places pressure on the hips and knees, leading to chronic pain and deterioration of joint health over time.
4. Frequent Cravings for Sugar
Belly fat affects how the body responds to insulin, triggering strong sugar cravings. This raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
5. Snoring and Sleep Breathing Issues
Fat accumulation increases the risk of sleep apnea and loud snoring — both of which reduce sleep quality and are linked to serious complications such as hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
6. Muscle Weakness and Loss of Strength
Low physical activity combined with weight gain contributes to muscle atrophy, impairing the ability to perform everyday tasks and increasing the risk of chronic illness.
7. Declining Muscle Mass
Inactivity and visceral fat accumulation contribute to loss of lean muscle, affecting overall strength, balance, and mobility.
Experts emphasize the importance of monitoring waist size and reducing excess weight to protect heart, liver, and respiratory health. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are crucial to improving muscle function and lowering the risks associated with belly fat.
Source: The Sun
