When men age there is a decrease in muscle mass but
also the accumulation of fat in several areas. Linked
to this is the famous beer belly. In this situation the
liver burns alcohol instead of fat. Let us not forget that
alcohol can increase your appetite. A person ends up
drinking lots of empty calories (sometimes in one sitting) and consuming the usual “fat munchies” that goes
with it such as pizza and fried foods. Different from
women, men have less subcutaneous fat all over the
body but they tend to store more in the belly area. In
addition, studies suggest that a large belly in men had
been linked to erectile dysfunction in older men (over
age 60 and still under research).
What can be done?
• Start a healthy lifestyle by modifying eating habits
• Decrease or avoid foods high in simple sugars or saturated fat
• Increase physical activity
• Start in a support group for a more active lifestyle
A big number of studies agree that by increasing physical
activity and cutting certain fats and foods can reduce total
body fat, including belly fat.
As Plato once said, “Lack of activity destroys the good condition of every human being, while movement and physical
exercise save it and preserve it.”
Julie Alvira, MD, holds an MBA in Healthcare Management. She is the owner of
AJBodysculpt and is a fully bilingual health and wellness writer and speaker. She is
also available for health and fitness coaching. View her fitness videos on
YouTube: AJBodysculpt, her podcasts through Spreaker app and Broadcast radio.
TEXOMA AREA Living Well Magazine | FALL 2015
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