Our bellies are one of the most noticeable body parts when we gain weight. A tell-tale sign that we have gained some pounds is that we can’t fit in our jeans anymore.
We have some explanations regarding the causes for adding a few inches in the belly when men and women gain weight.
1. Sugary Foods and Beverages
Cakes, candies, frozen yogurt, flavored coffee drinks, sodas and sweet tea are only some of the most popular sugar-sweetened food and beverages. Though it’s hard saying “no” to these tempting foods, they are likely the culprit of your increased belly. Added sugar like high fructose corn syrup gets stored as fat. Make sure to read labels for added sugar and when you have a sweet craving reach for a fresh piece of fruit instead.2. Alcohol
Alcohol, when consumed in moderate amounts, can have healthful benefits such as lowering your risk of stroke and heart disease. High alcohol intake, on the other hand, can lead to health problems but also an increase belly fat. Alcohol suppresses fat burning, has a lot of sugar, and the excess calories from it are stored as belly fat. This is where the term “beer belly” came from.3. Trans Fats
Trans fats are unhealthy fats that are usually added to packaged foods to extend their shelf life. Aside from being linked to various diseases like heart disease and insulin resistance, a diet that has high in trans fats can cause excess fat in the stomach. So before you take a mouthful of that muffin, have a second thought and think of your belly.
