It might be aggravating to find your stomach expanding, especially if you haven’t changed your diet or exercise routine. Your stomach may be enlarging for a variety of causes, ranging from normal age-related changes to underlying health issues. In this post, we’ll look at some of the most common causes of an enlarged stomach and what you can do about it.
AGING
Our metabolism slows as we age, and our bodies may retain additional fat around the belly. Hormonal changes in both men and women can also contribute to a bigger stomach. While you can’t stop the aging process, you can slow it down by eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly.
POOR NUTRITION
A diet strong in sugar, processed foods, and bad fats, according to Healthline, can contribute to weight gain and a bigger stomach. To counteract this, eat full, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats. Reduce your sugar and processed food intake, and prefer whole grains over refined grains.
LACK OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Sedentism can contribute to weight gain and a bigger stomach. Make it a point to exercise on a regular basis, whether through planned workouts or simply being more active throughout the day. On most days of the week, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity.
STRESS
Chronic stress can increase the body’s production of cortisol, a hormone linked to belly fat storage. If you’re stressed, try to discover strategies to cope, such as meditation, yoga, or talking to a therapist.
DIGESTIVE PROBLEMS
Bloating, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are all conditions that can cause your stomach to appear larger. If you’re having digestive problems, consult your doctor to discover if there’s an underlying problem that has to be addressed.
MEDICAL PROBLEMS
A larger stomach may be a symptom of a medical condition such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Cushing’s syndrome, or hypothyroidism in some cases. If you suspect that your larger stomach is the result of a medical condition, consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
There are a few things you can do to help reduce the appearance of belly fat in addition to addressing the underlying cause of your larger stomach.
These are some examples:
Eating a nutritious diet low in processed foods and added sugars
Regular exercise, including both cardio and strength training
Getting enough sleep, as sleep deprivation has been linked to weight gain.
Stress reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing
Avoiding smoking and binge drinking, both of which can contribute to belly fat.
For a larger stomach can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from normal aging to underlying medical conditions. You can help reduce the appearance of belly fat and improve your overall health and well-being by identifying the underlying cause and making lifestyle changes to address it.
