THE FAT ON YOUR BELLY COULD WEIGH YOU DOWN

FOR years, 38-year-old Ananya struggled with stubborn belly fat despite maintaining a normal weight. A busy marketing professional, she often skipped meals, relied on ready-to-cook (processed) meals, and slept irregular hours due to work stress.

- RISHITA KHANNA

Over time, she noticed her waistline expanding, even though her overall weight had not changed significantly. A routine health check-up revealed elevated cortisol levels and early signs of insulin resistance-both linked to excess belly fat. Ananya's case, however, is not unique.

Many people, even those who appear fit, develop abdominal fat due to factors beyond just overeating.

Belly fat is not just a cosmetic concern, it is an indicator of deeper metabolic changes influenced by hormones, lifestyle, and genetics, doctors say, emphasising that understanding why belly fat accumulates and how it impacts health is crucial for effective prevention and management.