Lifestyle, genetics, and medicine affect belly fat. Understanding medical reasons of abdominal obesity is essential for treating underlying health disorders. Medical diseases that may cause abdominal obesity include:
Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that includes abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, raised blood sugar, and abnormal lipid levels.
Hormonal Imbalances: Cushing's Syndrome: Cushing's syndrome, abnormal cortisol production, can cause central obesity, or stomach fat. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Hormonal imbalances can cause abdominal weight gain in women with PCOS.
Hypothyroidism effects on metabolism: An underactive thyroid can inhibit metabolism, causing weight gain and belly fat. Hypothyroidism can cause fluid retention and abdominal bloating. Insulin Resistance: Type 2 Diabetes: Insulin resistance can lead to increased abdominal obesity. Elevated Blood Sugar: Poor blood sugar control may cause abdominal fat buildup.
Genetic Factors: Genetic Predisposition: Genetics influence fat distribution and abdominal fat storage.
Celiac Disease: Impact on Nutrient Absorption: This autoimmune illness in the small intestine can cause nutrient malabsorption, weight gain, and belly fat.
Liver Conditions: - Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) leads to fat accumulation in the liver and may be linked to abdominal obesity. Liver cirrhosis: Advanced liver disease causes belly enlargement and fat.
Medication: Long-term usage of corticosteroids might cause weight gain, especially belly fat. Some antidepressants might cause weight gain.