A recent study has revealed a significant connection between excess belly fat and chronic pain, particularly in women.
Researchers from the University of Tasmania and other institutions found that abdominal fat, specifically visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), contributes to widespread musculoskeletal pain.
The study, published in the journal Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine, analysed data from over 32,000 participants in the UK Biobank and highlighted the concerning role of abdominal fat in increasing chronic pain sensitivity.
We asked experts to explain how belly fat can cause pain.
How belly fat contributes to chronic pain
Excess belly fat, particularly VAT, is known to be metabolically active, releasing inflammatory markers that worsen pain sensitivity and contribute to chronic conditions like fibromyalgia. According to Kanikka Malhotra, Consultant Dietician and Diabetes Educator, the inflammatory nature of visceral fat exacerbates the body’s pain response. This is especially true in women, where hormonal factors like estrogen further influence fat distribution and metabolism, making them more prone to the link between abdominal fat and chronic pain.
Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, explains that the mechanical stress caused by excess weight adds to musculoskeletal issues, particularly in the lower back and joints. This additional strain can aggravate conditions like osteoarthritis and lead to chronic discomfort. Abdominal fat also has a negative impact on insulin resistance and other metabolic disorders, further contributing to the development of chronic pain.
Dr Chatterjee advises that the management of abdominal fat begins with lifestyle modifications (Source: Freepik)
Beyond chronic pain, excess abdominal fat presents numerous health risks for both men and women. According to Dr Chatterjee, some of the most common problems include:
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- Metabolic Syndrome: A cluster of conditions that elevate the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, primarily driven by visceral fat.
- Cardiovascular Disease: Belly fat is closely linked to heart attacks, stroke, and hypertension.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Abdominal fat promotes insulin resistance, making the body less effective at controlling blood sugar levels.
- Sleep Apnoea: Excess abdominal weight is associated with breathing disruptions during sleep, increasing the risk of sleep apnoea.
- Fatty Liver Disease: VAT contributes to fat accumulation in the liver, raising the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
- Cancer: The presence of belly fat is linked to a higher risk of cancers such as breast, colon, and endometrial cancer.
- Infertility: Abdominal obesity can impair fertility by disrupting hormonal balance.
- Reduced Quality of Life: Excess abdominal fat negatively impacts self-esteem, body image, and overall well-being.
Managing abdominal fat and chronic pain
Dr Chatterjee advises that the management of abdominal fat begins with lifestyle modifications. This includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and monitoring waist circumference in addition to BMI. For individuals struggling with chronic pain due to obesity, referral to a healthcare provider for further interventions such as pharmacological treatment or bariatric surgery may be necessary.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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