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Gaining Clarity: The Science and Solutions Behind Stubborn Fat
Stubborn fat refers to fat deposits in the body that don’t seem to budge despite regular exercise and a healthy diet. This occurs because fat loss isn’t uniformly distributed throughout the body. How and where we lose fat is influenced by several factors, including genetics, sex hormones, and age. Biologically, our bodies are designed to store excess energy as fat for potential future use. There are two primary types of fat: subcutaneous fat, which is located directly under the skin, and visceral fat, which surrounds internal organs. Stubborn fat usually refers to subcutaneous fat, which can be more difficult to lose. It often collects in specific areas like the lower abdomen, hips, thighs, and arms. This type of fat is more resistant to being metabolised due to a higher number of alpha-receptors compared to beta-receptors, which are more receptive to fat-burning signals from hormones. Stubborn fat can also be influenced by sex hormones, with oestrogen promoting fat storage in the lower body for women and testosterone promoting fat storage in the belly for men.
The distribution of fat in our bodies is largely determined by genetics and hormones. Some people may find that they naturally carry more fat in their hips and thighs, while others might carry it in their abdomen. This is mostly due to genetic predispositions. For example, if your parents tend to carry more fat in their abdomen, you’re likely to do so as well. Sex hormones also play a significant role. Women, influenced by oestrogen, are more likely to store fat in their hips, thighs, and buttocks, while men, influenced by testosterone, are more likely to store fat in their abdomen. As we age, hormonal changes can shift fat distribution. For example, women often see a shift in fat storage from their hips and thighs to their abdominal area after menopause. That said, everyone is unique, and individual variations are significant.
Yes, certain individuals can be more predisposed to developing stubborn fat based on factors like genetics, sex, age, lifestyle, and overall health. Genetics can play a significant role, as they can dictate where your body tends to store fat. Hormonal factors also contribute. Women, for instance, are genetically and hormonally predisposed to store more fat in their lower bodies, which can result in stubborn pockets of fat around the hips, thighs, and buttocks. As we age, metabolic rates slow down, and hormonal changes can lead to increased fat storage, often in stubborn areas. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, physical activity level, sleep, and stress, can all influence body fat distribution and accumulation. Finally, certain health conditions and medications can also lead to weight gain and increased stubborn fat.
While genetics and hormonal factors can make it difficult to eliminate stubborn fat completely through lifestyle changes alone, certain habits can help manage and even reduce its appearance. Regular physical activity, particularly a combination of cardio and strength training exercises, can help reduce body fat and build muscle, which might help improve body composition. Eating a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and limiting processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can help manage weight and may assist in fat loss. Adequate sleep is also essential as it regulates hormones that control appetite and metabolism. Stress management is another crucial factor; chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalances that promote fat storage. While these changes may not eliminate stubborn fat entirely, they can help improve overall health and body composition, making any stubborn fat less noticeable. Drinking plenty of water is also important. Staying well-hydrated helps maintain optimal metabolic function and can aid in weight management. Finally, maintaining a consistent routine with these habits can help sustain any progress made in reducing stubborn fat. It’s always important to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to create a lifestyle plan that meets your individual needs and goals.
Traditional treatments for stubborn fat typically involve surgical procedures like liposuction or non-surgical procedures like cryolipolysis (Cooltech), radiofrequency treatments, or laser therapy. Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes fat cells from the body and can be very effective for reducing stubborn fat. However, it carries the risks associated with surgery and requires a significant recovery period. Non-surgical treatments like Cooltech work by damaging fat cells so they can be naturally eliminated from the body. While these treatments can be effective, results can vary, and multiple treatments are often required. It’s also important to note that these treatments are not weight loss solutions and work best for individuals who are close to their ideal weight and want to target specific areas of stubborn fat.
Cooltech, Emsculpt NEO, EmTone, and Endolift are advanced, non-surgical treatments that offer innovative ways to tackle stubborn fat. Cooltech is a controlled cooling treatment that targets and kills fat cells, which are then naturally eliminated from the body. EmSculpt NEO combines radiofrequency heating to destroy fat cells and high-intensity focused electromagnetic technology to build muscle, providing a two-pronged approach to body contouring. EmTone combines thermal and mechanical energy to improve skin texture and appearance and can be beneficial for areas of cellulite, which often accompany stubborn fat. Endolift is a minimally invasive laser treatment that tightens the skin and stimulates collagen production, which can complement fat reduction by addressing any associated skin laxity. These treatments offer targeted, effective ways to address stubborn fat without the need for surgery or significant downtime, and they can often provide superior results compared to traditional methods.
Take the First Step Towards Defeating Persistent Fat
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I had the pleasure of visiting Nova for a skin consultation to understand more about my skin. They thoroughly discussed various options/treatments to enhance the condition of my skin.
Maryann D
Great experience with Dr Simmonds! I travel all the way from Essex to Greenwich, because the staff at Nova clinic are highly skilled and professional.
Leonie Lombard
A fantastic clinic; the environment is inviting and the staff are friendly, polite and knowledgable.
Julia
Thank you again for your high quality expertise & gentleness. Always a pleasure to come to Nova.
Tomris
I’ve been going to this clinic for a few years now and I just love it! It is very fancy but affordable. The staff are lovely! The manager, Christina is an angel from heaven.
Rachel Christina
I had the pleasure of visiting Nova for a skin consultation to understand more about my skin. They thoroughly discussed various options/treatments to enhance the condition of my skin.
Maryann D
Great experience with Dr Simmonds! I travel all the way from Essex to Greenwich, because the staff at Nova clinic are highly skilled and professional.
Leonie Lombard
A fantastic clinic; the environment is inviting and the staff are friendly, polite and knowledgable.
Julia
Thank you again for your high quality expertise & gentleness. Always a pleasure to come to Nova.
Tomris
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