According to Very Well Health, abdominal fat from hormonal imbalance differs from typical weight gain. Obesity mainly causes subcutaneous fat accumulation. However, hormonal imbalance can promote fat deposition deep around internal organs, known as visceral fat. This often results in a protruding, apple-shaped abdomen.

Visceral fat linked to hormonal imbalance can appear even in individuals who maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. This occurs because hormonal changes affect the body's metabolism and fat distribution, not merely excess calories.

Imbalances in the following hormones can lead to abdominal fat accumulation in both men and women:

Cortisol, often called the stress hormone, sees its levels rise under physical or mental pressure. This hormone regulates metabolism, influencing blood sugar and fat distribution. Chronically elevated cortisol levels lead the body to accumulate more fat, especially in the abdomen and face, while limbs stay relatively slender.

Leptin and ghrelin regulate hunger and satiety. Leptin, produced by fat cells, signals fullness to the brain, reducing appetite. Conversely, ghrelin, secreted by the stomach, stimulates hunger and promotes eating. An imbalance between these hormones can increase food intake, contributing to weight gain and abdominal fat.

Thyroid hormones regulate the body's metabolism and energy utilization. When thyroid hormone levels decrease (hypothyroidism), the metabolic rate slows. This increases the risk of weight gain and fat accumulation, including abdominal fat. Hypothyroidism can also cause overall weight gain from fat accumulation and water retention.

Insulin regulates blood sugar levels. When muscle, liver, and fat tissue cells respond poorly to insulin (insulin resistance), the body produces more of this hormone to maintain stable blood sugar. Over time, insulin resistance promotes fat accumulation, especially visceral fat in the abdomen. If unchecked, individuals face a high risk of prediabetes and type two diabetes.

In women, common hormonal imbalances contributing to an enlarged waistline include:

Perimenopause and menopause can cause women to gain weight, especially abdominal fat. Declining estrogen levels alter fat distribution, causing fat to accumulate around the abdomen instead of subcutaneously. Many postmenopausal women thus have higher visceral fat.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) often relates to elevated androgen levels. While women produce a small amount of this hormone for reproductive function, muscles, and bones, high androgen levels can disrupt ovulation, form multiple small cysts in the ovaries, and increase insulin resistance. This contributes to weight gain, abdominal fat, and symptoms like excessive hair growth on the face, chest, and abdomen.

In men, low testosterone levels increase abdominal fat, leading to muscle mass loss and decreased libido, according to WebMD. Obesity, pituitary disorders, infections, and chemotherapy are among the causes of low testosterone.

By Anh Chi (Compiled)