Oh you hear it in the news, you hear it from your doctor, and now you will hear it from me. Abdominal fat is dangerous. The beer belly or muffin top could be your own little store of fat deposits. Holding this fat around your waist has previously been linked to increased diabetes and heart disease risks. While this alone is enough to make many want to slim down, those who are still reluctant have another reason to listen up, dementia. Belly fat, especially in your 40’s, has been linked to increased instances of dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease, not just for those who suffer from it, but the families who live with them. Those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia lose touch with themselves and reality. Loved ones, spouses, children, all can be forgotten with this horrible disease. Many patients feel paranoid and abused because they don’t know what is going on. They can forget medications, get into accidents, forget their addresses and many other dangerous situations.

But what can we do to bust the belly fat? Well America, change your eating patterns first and foremost. You can still eat what you want, just don’t eat to excess. Also, getting some serving of vegetables a day can increase your fiber and help get things moving. Then, get moving! Cardio is a great way to exercise your heart and get much needed oxygen flowing. If you can’t take on simple exercises by yourself, you can always try to take a class at a gym. I know some people who are the least motivated people in the world, but by signing up for a class (kickboxing, spinning, yoga, etc) they get the feedback and encouragement they need to keep going. Good luck and get healthy!