Reclaim your belly: ways to manage excess visceral abdominal fat
It may be challenging to get rid of excess visceral abdominal fat, but like many chronic health conditions, you have the power to manage it and live a full life!
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How is excess visceral abdominal fat diagnosed?
While there is no standardized test for diagnosing excess visceral abdominal fat, the following are some common ways your healthcare provider may determine if you have the condition:
Palpate your abdomen/belly for firmness
Measure your waist and hips
Calculate your waist-to-hip ratio
Ask questions (about your symptoms, medical history, and HIV therapy regimen)
Think you might be at risk for excess visceral abdominal fat?
Take the short test below to find out and discuss the results with your healthcare provider!
Measure your Waist-To-Hip Ratio
Measure your waist-to-hip ratio to take the first step in understanding if you may be living with excess visceral abdominal fat. You’ll need a measuring tape.
Tips on how to measure your waist and hip circumference
First, grab your measuring tape and stand up straight.
Waist:
- Stand up straight and place a measuring tape around your middle, just above your hip bones.
- Measure at the level of the top of the hip bones and in line with your belly button.
- Keep the measuring tape horizontal around your waist.
- Do not compress the skin but keep the measuring tape snug around your waist.
- Breathe out before measuring.
Hips:
- Stand up straight and place the measuring tape around the widest portion of the buttocks.
- Make sure the measuring tape is horizontal before measuring.
What are my treatment options?
The most important step for people with HIV to manage excess visceral abdominal fat is to work closely with a healthcare provider. Together, you will be able to come up with a personalized healthcare plan that will consider your specific needs and concerns, including the management of excess visceral abdominal fat.
The management strategies may involve a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring to maintain optimal health and well-being.
Ready for a conversation with your healthcare provider? Here are a couple of resources to get you started:
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Living well with excess visceral abdominal fat
There are treatment options available to help manage excess visceral abdominal fat. Your healthcare provider can help you receive a proper diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that best suits your needs. Working as a team with your healthcare provider and taking a holistic approach to your healthcare can make all the difference in how you feel!
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Here are a couple of things you can do to start tackling excess visceral abdominal fat:
Understand your health
Prioritize your well-being with regular medical check-ups. Schedule routine appointments with your healthcare provider(s) to monitor your health, address any concerns, and ensure proactive management of your overall well-being.
Taking care of yourself
Eating well, staying active, and finding ways to manage stress can make a big difference. Talk to someone if you're feeling down or stressed about your body changes.
Stay consistent
Once you and your healthcare provider find a treatment strategy that works for you, keeping up with it and establishing a routine will help set you up for success. There is no overnight solution, and it will take time to see changes in excess visceral abdominal fat!
New treatments and a better understanding of HIV mean that people with HIV can live longer, healthier lives. Talk to your healthcare provider about strategies to support healthy aging while managing HIV and excess visceral abdominal fat!