Can Fat Loss be targeted only in specific areas?

The specific areas where an individual will lose fat first can vary based on their genetics and body composition. However, typically, when someone begins a weight loss journey, they may notice initial fat loss in areas such as the face, neck, and upper body (including the chest and arms).

These regions often have a lower concentration of fat cells compared to other areas of the body. Types of fat Despite the broad use of the word “fat” to describe all body fat, there are actually several different types of fats in your body.

Some types of fat can have a negative effect on your health and contribute to disease. Others are beneficial and necessary for your health. The MAIN TYPE OF FAT cells are white, brown, and beige cells. They can be stored as essential, subcutaneous, or visceral fat (watch out for our blog post on this).

Each type of fat serves a different role. Some promote healthy metabolism and hormone levels, while others contribute to life-threatening diseases.

White fat is the type of fat that most people immediately think of It’s made up of large, white cells that are stored under the skin or around the organs in the belly, arms, buttocks, and thighs. These fat cells are the body’s way of storing energy for later use. This type of fat also plays a large role in the function of hormones such as:

• Estrogen

• Leptin (one of the hormones that stimulates hunger)

• Insulin

• Cortisol (a stress hormone)

• Growth Hormone

While some white fat is necessary for good health, too much white fat is very harmful. Healthy body fat percentages range depending on your level of fitness or physical activity According to the American council on Exercise, men who are non-athletes should have a total body fat percentage in the 14 to 24 percent range.

Women who are non-athletes should be in the 21 to 31 percent range.

Fat Distribution Women store more fat in the gluteal-femoral region, whereas Men store more fat in the visceral (abdominal) depot.

One of the key determinants of body fat distribution is the sex hormone status.

Estrogen’s have been shown to promote fat accumulation in the gluteofemoral subcutaneous fat stores (buttocks and thighs). Testosterone has been shown to increase lipid utilisation and decrease storage; this explains why men typically have a lower body fat percentage than women.

While you can build muscle in specific areas, targeting fat loss isn't realistic Some of the physiological reasons as to why spot reduction doesn't work are as follows: The fat contained in fat cells exists in a form known as triglycerides (as discussed in our previous blog post). The fat broken down in the body to be used as fuel can come and will come from anywhere in the body, not just from the body part at work.

Sorry, ab crunches and leg raises will not specifically target fat loss in those particular areas In reality, the common areas that may be stubborn in terms of fat loss include the abdomen, hips, thighs, and buttocks, these regions often have a higher concentration of fat cells and are influenced by hormonal factors. Moreover, genetics play a role in determining where an individual loses fat first and last. Some people may lose fat predominantly from their upper body, while others may lose it more from their lower body. The optimal approach is to comprehend your body's biomechanics and establish a blend of consistent exercise, a well-balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle. Alternatively, you can entrust this process to us at MANA, where we provide guidance and support tailored to your specific needs.