It’s a common frustration. You’re thin everywhere else, yet your stomach tells a different story. The truth is, being skinny but having a belly isn’t unusual. It stems from several factors that often go unnoticed.
Why This Happens
One culprit is poor posture. Slouching pushes the abdomen forward, making the belly more pronounced. Even for someone with a slim frame, this creates an illusion of excess fat.
Another factor? Visceral fat—the hidden fat around your organs. Unlike subcutaneous fat, it’s not always visible but still bulges the midsection. Visceral fat develops due to sedentary lifestyles, high stress levels, and poor dietary choices.
Lastly, there’s muscle imbalance. Weak core muscles fail to support the spine and abdomen properly, leading to a protruding belly. Even without significant fat, the lack of tone in this area can result in what many describe as a “skinny fat” look.
Fixing the Problem
You can target this issue through simple lifestyle adjustments. Start with your diet. Consuming fewer processed carbs and more protein helps manage visceral fat. Foods high in fibre, like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, also improve digestion and reduce bloating.
Exercise plays a crucial role. Incorporate strength training to build muscle mass, especially focusing on the core. Planks, crunches, and leg raises are effective. Combine these with regular cardio to burn fat and improve cardiovascular health.
For those wondering why they’re skinny but have a belly (ผอม แต่ มี พุง, which is the term in Thai), stress might also be a factor. High cortisol levels encourage fat storage in the abdominal region. Practising mindfulness techniques like yoga or meditation can lower stress and help maintain a flatter stomach.
Tips to Keep in Mind:
- Stay active throughout the day. Avoid sitting for prolonged periods.
- Hydrate properly to flush out toxins and reduce bloating.
- Prioritize sleep. Poor sleep habits disrupt hormone levels and lead to weight gain, especially around the midsection.
By adopting these changes, a flatter, healthier stomach is within reach. With a bit of consistency and effort, you can transform your body and feel more confident. Remember, the key is balance—healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress management work hand in hand to deliver lasting results.