Drink carbonated soft drinks
Carbonated soft drinks contribute to increasing visceral fat accumulation because they contain a lot of added sugar, providing high calories but not creating a feeling of fullness or bringing nutritional value. When consuming too much sugar, the liver will convert excess fat into fat. In the long term, this process increases fat around the organs in the body.
Instead of using sugary drinks, you should choose healthier options such as filtered water, sugar-free tea or carbonated mineral water mixed with a small amount of fruit juice.
Unable to control stress
Prolonged stress can make it more difficult to reduce belly fat. Chronic stress not only affects mood but also disrupts hormone balance, thereby promoting fat accumulation in many areas of the body.
When the body is stressed, the hormone cortisol is released more, which is directly related to increased belly fat storage.
To control stress, you should maintain regular exercise habits or spend time on your favorite activities. These methods help improve both mental and physical health.
Smoking
Smoking affects hormones and fat distribution in the body. Nicotine increases cortisol levels - stress hormones involved in promoting fat storage, especially abdominal fat.
Lack of sleep
Prolonged insomnia can cause hormonal disorders, especially hormones that regulate hunger and stress. When sleep is not enough, the body increases the production of ghrelin - a hormone that stimulates hunger and reduces leptin, a hormone that signals fullness. From there, it increases appetite and calorie intake, contributing to visceral fat accumulation.
Insufficient sleep also increases the hormone cortisol related to stress. Maintaining a sleep time of 7 - 9 hours per night helps balance hormones, control appetite and reduce stress, creating favorable conditions for organ fat reduction.
In addition, setting a regular sleep schedule and building relaxation habits before going to bed can improve sleep quality and support overall health.