The Surprising Link Between Belly Fat and Vitamin D

The most obvious reasons for having belly fat may be eating junk food and not getting enough exercise. However, a new study points to one more reason that might surprise you. Researchers have found a strong link between insufficient vitamin D and too much belly fat.

A study done by two medical schools in the Netherlands found that men and women who are overweight and have more belly fat are more likely to be vitamin D deficient. Some experts now say that anyone with a big middle may need to get their vitamin D levels checked, even though the link between the two is not yet clear.

Even if you are not overweight, you might be having trouble losing belly fat and wondering if you are getting enough vitamin D. Check out this simple guide to learn how to safeguard your health.

Getting More Vitamin D

Over 40% of Americans, according to some estimates, are vitamin D deficient. Brittle bones, a compromised immune system, and certain heart diseases can be the results.

Follow these tips to increase your vitamin D levels:

Eat fish and eggs. Very few foods naturally contain vitamin D, but many are fortified with this vital ingredient. Because foods include a form of vitamin D that your body can utilize very well, fatty fish and egg yolks are particularly healthy.

2. Get some sunshine. Since vitamin D is both a hormone and a vitamin, your skin can produce its own when exposed to sunlight. At the same time, some safety measures are required. 5 to 30 minutes of direct sun exposure may be sufficient, depending on your sensitivity.

3. Incorporate vitamins. Look for the seal of approval from the United States Pharmacopeia on the label of a supplement to make sure that it meets the highest standards. The quality and potency of supplements might vary substantially between brands.

4. Understand your risks. Some adults need more vitamin D than others. That includes vegans, senior citizens, and people with darker skin.

Reducing Abdominal Fat:

Visceral fat is the kind of fat that wraps around your organs and builds up deep in your abdomen. Because it alters your hormones and raises your risk for diabetes and heart disease, it is particularly dangerous. The good news is that losing weight through food and exercise is rather simple.

To lose belly fat, try the following methods:

Measure your waist. Vitamin D levels can be measured with a simple blood test by your doctor. However, just measuring your waist can often tell you if you’re at risk. In general, you may want to speak with your doctor if you’re a man with a waistline over 40 inches or a woman with a waistline over 35 inches.

2. Exercise regularly. To burn fat, combine an active lifestyle with aerobic exercise and weight training. Workout for at least three hours every week if you want to lose weight.

3. Eat more fiber. You can burn fat and sate your hunger with foods high in fiber, which have fewer calories. Fill up on nutritious grains, fruits, and veggies.

4. Sleep well. Your metabolism can be affected, and your body may store more fat if you don’t get enough sleep. Try to sleep for at least 7 hours per night.

Create a six-pack by burning off your belly fat. If you get enough vitamin D and keep your stomach flat, you’ll live a longer, healthier life. Maintain a healthy diet, get some exercise, and discuss your worries with your doctor.