What Causes Belly Fat?


Belly fat, colloquially known as abdominal obesity or clinical as central obesity, is the accumulation of visceral fat resulting in an increase in waist size. There is a strong correlation between central obesity and cardiovascular disease. Men and women with excessive belly fat have increased risks of life-threatening diabetes, heart disease, and cancers.

Causes of Belly Fat

Major causes of belly fat are genetics, improper digestion, stress, menopause, slow metabolism, lack of exercise and excess eating


According to researches, belly fat can result from stress. When you are under stress, the cortisol hormone is released. Cortisol stimulates the fat storage around the belly. When you are stressed, you often feel hungry and tend to eat more, which can lead to excess weight gain.


There are two body types, apple and pear body shapes. In case of pear-shaped body, fat accumulation is in the lower parts of the body. Fat stored in the abdomen and middle portion causes apple-shaped body. Most people have apple-shaped body. If any of your parents have such body type, then you are at a higher risk of developing belly fat.

Slow metabolism

Metabolism rate is a major contributing factor in abdominal fat. A slower metabolism causes less burning of calories and excess accumulation of fats. You can increase the basal metabolic rate (BMR) with the help of a nutritious and balanced diet and regular exercises.

Improper digestion

Over-eating and improper digestion can lead to a number of gastrointestinal problems. It causes gases and bloating. Eating late at night can also interfere with proper digestion of food. Going to bed immediately after meals also increases the risk of fat storage around the abdominal area.

Lack of exercises

If you follow a lazy lifestyle and keep on eating without any physical activity, then it can lead to obesity and accumulation of belly fat. It is very essential to burn calories through exercises to maintain a healthy body weight.

Poor posture

Poor body posture can leave you with a paunch or ‘pot belly’ appearance. The proper posture makes a great difference in your appearance.


Alcohol decreases the rate of metabolism and increases obesity. Calories obtained from excess alcohol are often stored around the abdominal area.


Menopause is one of the main reasons for belly fat in women. After menopause, many women tend to accumulate fat around the tummy due to hormonal changes.

Not eating at all (trying to lose weight too fast)
When you don’t eat your body holds onto belly fat for energy and slows down your metabolism. Dieting slows down your metabolism making it real easy for you to gain belly fat. A certain amount of calories must be eaten a day to maintain your weight (and prevent belly fat).