Types of Stomach Fat

Stomach fat, also known as central obesity, is the excess weight that gathers around your mid-section. According to the American Council on Exercise, leading a sedentary lifestyle and overeating are the primary causes of central obesity. Stomach fat is comprised of two main types of fat, both of which are detrimental to your health.

Subcutaneous Fat

• Subcutaneous fat is the visible fatty tissue you can feel directly beneath your skin. This type of fat exists over your entire body and is necessary for survival, according to the American Council on Exercise. However, when it collects around the stomach region due to obesity, it can indicate a health problem. According to Marcy S. Gregory M.S., author of "Lose the Belly Fat," like any other type of fat, the best method of losing subcutaneous belly fat is through proper diet and regular exercise.

Visceral

• Visceral fat resides within your torso, surrounding your major internal organs such as your heart and liver. An excess of visceral fat causes the abdomen to protrude excessively, even if you cannot feel fat beneath the skin. According to Kurt and Brett Brungardt, authors of "The Complete Book of Abs," visceral fat must be lost through proper diet and intense cardiovascular training.

Health Risks

• Both subcutaneous and visceral abdominal fat can pose severe risks to your health. According to the American Council on Exercise, an excess of abdominal fat raises the risk of heart failure and certain types of cancer. Other health risks associated with central obesity include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and dementia. If you have excess stomach fat, the best way to prevent these health risks is to begin a healthy, sensible diet and exercise program.

  There is no way to target only your abdominal fat, but through diet and exercise, fat over your entire body will decrease. Consult with your physician before beginning a new diet and exercise program to determine a healthy goal-weight for yourself.