Why most Indians have potbellies ?

High-Carbohydrate Diets: Conventional Indian foods frequently prioritize refined carbohydrates such as rice and roti. These foods may trigger quick increases in blood glucose levels, resulting in higher fat accumulation, especially in the abdominal area.

Insufficient Protein Consumption: A diet deficient in enough protein, particularly from sources such as meat, hinders muscle growth. This lack facilitates fat storage, with the abdomen often serving as a typical location.

Intake of Processed Foods: The rising consumption of processed foods high in sugars and unhealthy fats leads to inflammation and negatively affects gut health, encouraging fat accumulation in the abdominal region.

Hormonal Shifts: With aging, men experience hormonal changes like lowered testosterone and heightened insulin resistance, which can cause fat buildup in the abdomen and a decline in muscle mass.

Genetic Predisposition: Throughout history, times of famine have resulted in the emergence of “thrift genes” within certain populations, enabling them to store fat effectively, especially visceral fat surrounding the organs.

Sedentary Lifestyle: Contemporary city living frequently includes extended periods of sitting, whether at workstations, in cars, or while using screens. This absence of exercise results in lesser calorie expenditure, causing fat to build up.

Chronic Stress: Ongoing stress raises cortisol levels, a hormone that instructs the body to accumulate fat, particularly in the belly area.

Gut Health Concerns: An imbalance of gut bacteria and digestive issues can result in bloating and poor metabolism, leading to a distended abdomen.

Visceral Fat Accumulation: In contrast to subcutaneous fat, visceral fat envelopes internal organs and is associated with multiple health issues, including hormonal imbalances and metabolic conditions.

Although rice and similar carbohydrates are frequently held responsible, the problem is complex, encompassing eating habits, lifestyle decisions, genetic influences, and hormonal shifts. Tackling abdominal obesity necessitates a comprehensive strategy that takes into account all these factors involved.