Truth About Visceral Fat: It’s More Dangerous Than You Think
The Truth About Visceral Fat: It’s More Dangerous Than You Think
When you step on the scale, it’s easy to assume you’re healthy if the numbers look good. But what if the scale isn’t telling the whole story? Beneath the surface, there’s a type of fat that can severely impact your health—visceral fat.
What Is Visceral Fat?
Visceral fat is the fat stored deep inside your abdomen, surrounding vital organs like your liver, pancreas, and intestines. Unlike subcutaneous fat (the fat you can pinch under your skin), visceral fat is hidden from view and can’t be tracked with traditional methods like scales or mirrors.
Dr. Gregory Burzynski, a trusted expert in body composition and metabolic health, emphasizes the importance of understanding where your fat is stored. "Visceral fat is a silent threat and impacts your risk for serious diseases far more than the fat you see externally," he notes.
Why Is Visceral Fat Dangerous?
Visceral fat isn’t just stored energy; it functions as an active endocrine organ, releasing chemicals and hormones that can disrupt your body’s normal functioning. Here’s why it’s particularly harmful:
Increased Risk of Heart Disease: Visceral fat promotes inflammation and insulin resistance, both of which contribute to cardiovascular problems.
Type 2 Diabetes Development: Excess visceral fat affects how your body processes insulin, increasing the likelihood of developing diabetes.
Hormone Imbalances: The inflammatory chemicals released by visceral fat can disrupt hormone balance, affecting your metabolism, mood, and overall health.
Chronic Inflammation: High levels of visceral fat trigger continuous inflammation, which is a root cause of many chronic diseases.
Why You Can’t Rely on the Scale Alone
Since visceral fat lies deep inside your body, it’s invisible to the naked eye and even to your weight readings. Two people with the same body weight might have very different health risks depending on where their fat is stored.
This is why Dr. Burzynski often recommends using advanced body composition testing rather than just relying on weight or Body Mass Index (BMI). “BMI and weight give you limited information,” he explains. “Knowing your visceral fat levels is critical to getting a complete picture of your health.”
How DexaFit West Houston Can Help
At DexaFit West Houston, we use a DEXA Scan — a gold-standard technology that provides precise measurements of your body composition, including:
Lean muscle mass
Bone density
Subcutaneous fat
Visceral fat
Our AI-enhanced DEXA Scan shows you exactly how much visceral fat you have and where it’s located. This insight allows you and your healthcare provider to create a targeted plan to reduce harmful fat and improve your overall health.
Benefits of a DEXA Scan at DexaFit West Houston:
Accurate and detailed body composition analysis
Safe and quick, with minimal radiation
Personalized health insights that go beyond weight
Track your progress over time with repeat scans
Dr. Burzynski supports the use of DEXA Scans as a key part of personalized wellness. “Knowing your visceral fat levels is the first step to preventing serious diseases,” he says. “It empowers you to make informed decisions about your health.”
What You Can Do to Reduce Visceral Fat
While visceral fat is dangerous, the good news is that it is reversible with lifestyle changes. Here are some practical steps to help reduce visceral fat:
Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly, plus strength training twice a week.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods, plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which can promote visceral fat accumulation.
Get Adequate Sleep: Poor sleep is linked to higher visceral fat levels.
Avoid Excess Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption to reduce fat buildup.
Dr. Burzynski advises a personalized approach: “Every person’s body is different. Combining accurate measurement with tailored lifestyle changes yields the best results.”
Take Control of Your Health Today
If you’re unsure about what your body composition looks like beyond the scale, a DEXA Scan at DexaFit West Houston is your best first step to uncover hidden risks and take meaningful action. Don’t wait until visceral fat affects your health. Book your DEXA Scan today and discover vital insights that can transform your wellness journey.
