What causes a large belly

A large belly may be caused by factors such as visceral fat accumulation, gastrointestinal bloating, abdominal muscle relaxation, abdominal fluid accumulation, tumors, etc. Excessive visceral fat is related to poor dietary habits and lack of exercise. Gastrointestinal bloating is often caused by digestive dysfunction, and abdominal muscle relaxation is more common in postpartum or lack of exercise. Medical examination is needed for abdominal fluid accumulation and tumors.

1. Accumulation of visceral fat

Long term high calorie diet and prolonged sitting can lead to the deposition of fat around the visceral organs, forming central obesity. This group of people usually have waist circumference exceeding the health standard, which may be accompanied by abnormal blood lipids and insulin resistance. Adjusting dietary structure and increasing aerobic exercise are key to improvement. It is recommended to reduce refined carbohydrates intake and choose whole grains and high-quality protein.

II. Gastrointestinal bloating

When the digestive system is disrupted, excessive fermentation of food residues in the intestines can produce a large amount of gas. Common triggers include lactose intolerance, overeating, and excessive intake of gas rich foods such as legumes or carbonated drinks. Supplementing probiotics appropriately, taking a walk after meals to promote intestinal peristalsis, and avoiding talking while eating can reduce gas accumulation.

Third, Abdominal Muscle Relaxation

Pregnancy, childbirth, rapid weight loss, or long-term lack of core muscle group exercise can lead to rectus abdominis muscle separation and loss of abdominal support. Manifested as abdominal sagging when standing and significant bulging when lying down. Muscle tension can be gradually restored through low-intensity training such as plank support and abdominal breathing. Severe separation requires professional rehabilitation guidance.

4. Peritoneal fluid accumulation

Diseases such as cirrhosis, heart failure, or nephrotic syndrome can cause fluid to infiltrate the abdominal cavity and form ascites. The characteristic features include bulging abdomen but emaciation of limbs, and voiced percussion. Diagnosis should be confirmed through ultrasound examination, and treatment should be targeted at the primary disease, limiting sodium intake and using diuretics.

V. Tumor Factors

Benign or malignant tumors of intra-abdominal organs may cause local swelling, such as ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, or digestive tract tumors. Usually accompanied by symptoms such as abnormal weight loss and changes in bowel habits. Imaging examinations and tumor marker screening can assist in diagnosis, and treatment plans should be developed based on the pathological type after diagnosis.

It is recommended to regularly measure the waist to hip ratio. Men who exceed 0.9 and women who exceed 0.85 should be alert to the risk of metabolic syndrome. Daily exercise such as brisk walking and swimming can be carried out, and dietary attention should be paid to increasing dietary fiber intake and reducing high sugar and high-fat foods. If abdominal distension is accompanied by pain, fever, or sudden weight loss, it is necessary to seek medical attention promptly to investigate organic diseases. Long term sedentary individuals are advised to get up and move around every hour, avoiding wearing overly tight clothing that compresses the abdomen.