That dangerous belly bulge

It is well-known that having excess fat in the body is unhealthy, but did you know that fat around the mid-section is particularly dangerous?

Unlike the “pinchable” type called subcutaneous fat that is found just under the skin, the more dangerous visceral fat cushions the internal organs and is stored deep in the mid-section. Research has shown that excess visceral fat is linked to a host of life-threatening diseases.

Dr Kevin Chua of Dr Kevin Chua Medical and Aesthetics said an increased amount of such fat around the organs and intestines may impede the way the body metabolises sugar. This may lead to a higher risk of diabetes and heart disease. Excess fat around the waist has also been linked to polycystic ovarian syndrome, a hormonal disorder in women that can cause fertility issues.

All of us have visceral fat, but when is it a cause for concern? According to Dr Chua, individuals who have a Body Mass Index of 25 and above, and a waistline of more than 90cm for women and 100cm for men have a higher chance of developing Type 2 diabetes. The overall risk of cardiovascular disease also increases if the person smokes or has high blood pressure, he added.

WHY EXTREME DIETING MAY NOT TRIM OFF EXCESS FAT

Any excess energy is laid down as fat throughout the body, but where the fat is distributed differs between men and women. In general, men usually develop an apple-shaped body while excess fat tends to accumulate around the hips in women, Dr Chua said.

Age also plays a role in fat accumulation. As metabolism slows with age, older people may find it harder to lose weight and keep excess weight off.

There is also another reason why extreme dieting may not be effective in reducing fat in the long run.

“Fat is the last resource of energy used by the body,” Dr Chua explained. “We tend to burn off what we eat, such as sugars and carbohydrates. Even if you go on a starvation diet, your body will turn to protein (your muscles) as a source of energy before it uses your fat stores.”

There are, however, some ways to get around the battle of the belly bulge with the use of medical technology.

ReduStim by BioStimology is a medical device that uses low-frequency biomagnetic waves. It stimulates a reduction of body fat stores through muscle contraction around the viscera.

Other non-invasive fat reduction techniques in the market may target the superficial subcutaneous fat but not the deeper fat deposits around the internal organs, Dr Chua said.

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT LIKE?

During the treatment, the patient climbs into a special suit (covering the body from abdomen to the feet) connected to the device.  

According to Dr Chua, the low-frequency bio-magnetic field created acts on the muscles around the internal organs. This induces energy consumption and stimulates the natural breakdown of fat cells. ReduStim also stimulates the lymphatic drainage to eliminate toxins and water retention, the doctor added.

Most people can expect 1cm off their waistline after each treatment*, said Dr Chua.

However, the treatment is not suitable for certain groups of people such as pregnant women, people with pacemakers, serious health issues, visible skin injuries and cuts, as well as children who have not reached biological maturity. Patients considering the treatment should discuss their options with their doctors.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE TREATMENT

The entire treatment is done while patient is lying down, and fully clothed. The treatment takes around 30 to 45 minutes and is painless.

Dr Chua said: “You will feel a rhythmic squeeze around your lower limbs and abdomen. Quite a few of our patients fall asleep during the procedure.”

There is no downtime, and patients can carry on with their daily routine after each treatment session. However, it is important for patients to drink plenty of water, and not consume carbohydrate-heavy food or sugars for four hours after the treatment.

Patients are recommended to undergo around 12 to 24 treatments, over a course of around three treatments a week. The frequency may be increased, depending on the individual’s slimming goals. Thereafter, supplementary sessions may be repeated as preferred.

As with all fat reduction treatments, Dr Chua said one should always maintain a sensible and healthy diet and exercise regularly to keep unwanted fat away.

To learn more about ReduStim, visit kevinchua.com.sg or email dr [at] kevinchua.com.sg.

*Individual results may vary.