Lower Body Obesity: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Issues

Lower body obesity

Hello Dr.
Chen: My height is 153 cm, and my weight has reached 52 to 53 kg, which I believe qualifies as obesity.
I have been struggling with severe constipation for a long time! There are times when I go a week without a bowel movement! During those times, I resort to taking laxatives to relieve myself.
Although I don't appear very overweight because my upper body looks quite slim, my lower body, particularly my abdomen, is quite large (my waist measures 26 inches)! It feels like I look as if I am three to four months pregnant, which is really unattractive! Previously, I weighed 47 kg, but due to increased stress recently, long hours sitting in the office, and frequent late-night snacking, I have gained nearly 5 kg in just two and a half months! I also have a habit of staying up late.
I have stopped late-night snacking for almost a month now, but I still don't see any results, and my constipation fluctuates.
No matter how much I exercise, my upper and lower abdomen remain large, and it doesn't seem like they will reduce.
What should I do? Thank you!

Jing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/03/09

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, based on your information, your BMI (Body Mass Index) is actually not high, approximately 22.3.
Generally, a BMI greater than 24 is considered overweight.
However, you are experiencing constipation, which may lead to abdominal bloating and discomfort.
I recommend drinking about 500 cc of cold whole milk first thing in the morning to help with bowel movements.
If you are concerned about localized fat accumulation, you can visit my clinic (Dr.
Tsai Tsung-Long).
Recently, I have started a Qigong weight loss class that can help address localized obesity.
Additionally, to prevent regaining weight, it is important to focus on your diet by avoiding sweet, salty, and greasy foods.
Wishing you success in your weight loss journey.
Best regards, Dr.
Tsai Tsung-Long.

Reply Date: 2005/03/09

More Info

Understanding lower body obesity and its associated digestive issues can be quite complex, as it involves a combination of factors including genetics, lifestyle, diet, and hormonal influences. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing both weight gain in the lower body and significant constipation, which can often be interrelated.

Causes of Lower Body Obesity
1. Genetics: Genetics play a significant role in body fat distribution. Some individuals are predisposed to store fat in the lower body, particularly in the thighs and hips. This is often referred to as "pear-shaped" obesity.

2. Hormonal Factors: Hormones, particularly estrogen, can influence where fat is stored in the body. Women tend to store more fat in the lower body due to the effects of estrogen, especially during reproductive years.

3. Dietary Habits: Consuming a diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can contribute to weight gain. Even if you have stopped eating late-night snacks, other dietary choices throughout the day can still impact your weight.

4. Sedentary Lifestyle: Long hours of sitting, especially in an office environment, can lead to weight gain and poor circulation, which may exacerbate issues like constipation.

5. Stress and Sleep: Chronic stress and lack of sleep can lead to hormonal imbalances that promote weight gain and digestive issues. Stress can also affect your eating habits, leading to emotional eating or cravings for unhealthy foods.

Solutions for Lower Body Obesity and Digestive Issues
1. Balanced Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Incorporating high-fiber foods can help alleviate constipation. Foods like beans, lentils, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can promote regular bowel movements.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Dehydration can worsen constipation, so aim for at least 8-10 cups of water daily.

3. Regular Exercise: Incorporate both aerobic and strength training exercises into your routine. Aerobic exercises like walking, cycling, or swimming can help burn calories and reduce fat, while strength training can help build muscle and improve metabolism. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week.

4. Stress Management: Engage in stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises. These practices can help lower cortisol levels, which may contribute to weight gain and digestive issues.

5. Sleep Hygiene: Prioritize good sleep hygiene by establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and avoiding screens before bedtime. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.

6. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If your constipation persists or worsens, consider consulting a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice and may recommend dietary changes, supplements, or medications to help manage your symptoms.

7. Avoid Laxatives: While laxatives may provide temporary relief from constipation, they should not be used as a long-term solution. Overuse can lead to dependency and worsen digestive issues.

8. Monitor Progress: Keep track of your dietary intake, exercise, and any changes in your weight or digestive health. This can help you identify patterns and make necessary adjustments.

Conclusion
Lower body obesity and digestive issues like constipation can be challenging to manage, but with a comprehensive approach that includes dietary changes, regular physical activity, stress management, and proper hydration, you can work towards achieving a healthier body composition and improved digestive health. Remember that changes take time, and it’s important to be patient with yourself as you navigate this journey.

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