How Age and Gender Influence Belly Fat Storage Patterns
Belly fat, also known as visceral fat, is not just an aesthetic concern but a major health risk factor. Its storage patterns are influenced by a combination of factors, including age and gender.
These two aspects play a pivotal role in determining how and where fat accumulates in the body, particularly in the abdominal region.
As we age, our metabolism naturally slows down, which can contribute to an increase in body fat, especially around the belly.
One reason for this is a decrease in muscle mass. Muscles are more metabolically active than fat, meaning that with less muscle mass, the body burns fewer calories at rest.
This can lead to an increase in fat storage, including in the abdominal area. Additionally, aging often brings about hormonal changes, such as a decrease in growth hormone and an increase in cortisol (the stress hormone).
Elevated cortisol levels can encourage fat accumulation, particularly in the abdominal area, where cortisol receptors are abundant. This explains why many people, particularly those over the age of 40, start noticing an expansion of belly fat, even if their overall weight remains stable.
Gender also significantly influences how and where fat is stored. Men and women have different fat distribution patterns, largely due to the influence of hormones like estrogen and testosterone.
In general, women tend to store more fat in their hips, thighs, and buttocks due to higher levels of estrogen, which encourages fat storage in these regions.