Stomach Fat

I am 49 years old and have been exercising regularly (6 days a week) for the past year and a half.  I have been loosing fat from all areas of my body except my stomach and when I say stomach I mean the area directly under my bust downwards. I have lost a total of approx. 73 cm. My concern is that my stomach area seems to be getting larger and I am very frustrated. Can anybody help.

[Dr Vinod]

Dear annettezam,

Hello!

If you understand the deposition of human fat in individuals you can understand. The extra calories of your dietary intake are deposited as fat for future needs of the body if it is in stress or need. The other reason is to maintain body temperature and provide body warmth. So the abdomen is the area what you are referring has lot of space and scope for deposition of fat.

The fat which gets deposited early will be the last to lose. You have to go intense to melt this fat and dietary changes are required during this period. Well balanced fat free diet should be planned and cardio along with some weights should be continued with vigor for over a period of time. With increasing intensity and diet restriction you will lose this abdominal fat over a period of time.

Take care!

[annettezam]

Hi Dr Vinod
Thanks for you response to my problem and I understand what you are saying but I am going through a period in my life where all is just too hard. I am not sleeping properly and was recently tested for sleep apnea, I won't get the results for approx 2 weeks. My question is, can disturbed sleep effect my state of mind and hinder my efforts regarding weight loss and enthusiasm to do anything at all. I just don't have the energy and regarding my weight loss can this sleeping problem hinder that even though I am exercising regularly and resonably carefull with what I eat.
Regards

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

It is a difficult question but my answer would be yes. Well, the state of mind to lose this difficult flab of fat should be very good and highly motivating. Self motivation is very important and for this stress free living, proper sleep and controlling desires in life like food should be followed religiously.

Actually if you achieve a normal BMI and continue exercise this would be enough but the desire to have a flat abdomen and a good physique you have to go that extra mile.

As a doctor I would surely want you not to stress and follow a regular exercise routine with intake of healthy and balanced diet and going ahead in a slow, progressive and motivated way.

Take care!