No two bellies are alike, but achieving a tight, flat abdomen requires a strategy tailored to your unique type. Identify yours below and learn the best approach.
Did you know… For visible abs, your body fat percentage needs to be low: about 8 percent for men and 14 percent for women.
Type 1: The Apple-Shaped Belly
The classic pear shape—narrow waist, wide hips, fuller buttocks—has given way to the apple shape, where fat accumulates around the midsection.
What causes it?
Hormones dictate fat storage, and imbalances can lead to a fuller figure. Common triggers include menopause, poor diet, chronic stress, or insufficient exercise.
Key culprits Estrogen plays a major role. An imbalance boosts fat production and elevates insulin levels, sparking cravings for sugars and carbs—not ideal for a toned stomach. Aging compounds this: muscle mass declines while fat increases.
What to do?
No quick-fix pill exists, but managing stress, eating healthily, and avoiding overeating can make a real difference.
Prioritize de-stressing
Stress hormones spike blood sugar, promoting fat storage. Counter it with activities like running, swimming, or shopping—whatever releases that tension. Supplements help too: magnesium promotes relaxation for body and mind, pairing perfectly with calcium. Take before bed for deeper calm and better stress resilience.
Discover more in the June issue of Santé: Additional belly types, flattening tips, and age-specific advice starting on page 54.
