Belly fat vs. thigh fat: Which is more difficult to lose?

Body fat is something that stresses us all out. Besides making us feel uncomfortable in our own skin, it also gives light to many health problems. However, what we need to understand is that fat accumulation in the body is not equal. There are certain areas of fat that are much easier to lose than others. The most common types of fat that affect our body are belly fat and thigh fat, which are often very difficult to lose and can be dangerous too. But it is important to note that both these body fat types are different from each other. Let us find out how.

Also read: Dietitians have decoded the effortless way to lose belly fat and here is everything you need to know about it

Belly fat is associated with the excess abdominal fat that builds up gradually as one consumes more than what they burn. On the other hand, thigh fat is also an outcome of an unhealthy lifestyle.

However, as compared to thigh fat, which consists of subcutaneous fat, belly fat majorly consists of visceral fats, wrapped around the inner organs, including the liver and intestines, posing great risks to health. Subcutaneous fat is found directly under the skin and unlike visceral fat, may even have some potential benefits.

Also read: Excess belly fat versus bloating: How to tell the difference?

Studies have found that belly fat poses greater risk to health than any other fat in the body. Besides leading to weight gain, it also increases one's risk of developing chronic illnesses. It is believed that high visceral fat levels can make one more prone to diabetes, heart disease, stroke, artery disease, and some cancers.

On the other hand, the subcutaneous fat that makes up thigh fat acts as an energy reserve for the body, while also providing a padding to protect your muscles and bones from injuries.

Both belly fat and thigh fat are the toughest to lose. Even after intense workout and strict diets, it takes a long time to see results. However, studies have said that belly fat may be more difficult to lose than thigh fat. Why? Because it is believed that belly fat has a higher amount of fat cells that refuse to respond to lipolysis, which is the fat-breakdown process.

Our body is divided into two types of receptors in fat cells known as alpha-2 and beta-2 cells. While alpha-2 receptors are more responsive to lipolysis, beta-2 cells do not respond well to the fat-breakdown process. That said, our belly and abdominal regions possess more of beta cells that makes it difficult to reduce the fats easily. Areas such as legs, face and arms have more alpha cells, making the weight loss process more quicker in these areas.

When it comes to losing belly or thigh fat, the approach is quite the same. That is through healthy eating and regular physical activity. Choosing the right kind of foods, cutting down on unhealthy carbs and fats and limiting your intake of processed foods are some of the dietary changes you must make. Apart from that, staying hydrated is key to losing weight.

Additionally, exercises play an integral role in keeping your weight in check. Regular workout, walking, being physically active can help lose weight and also maintain it.