What Hormones Do
Hormones are chemical compound envoys that perform a number of tasks in the human body, including physical growth, fertility and metabolism (the last having a direct effect on belly fat). The endocrine glands emit hormones into the bloodstream to turn food into energy for the body. The thyroid, pancreatic islets and adrenal glands produce hormones for growth and metabolism. Belly fat results when metabolism is not moderated properly by hormones. Belly fat stores up in the midsection and cramps the abdominal organs. The abdominal organs include the stomach, small intestine, colon, liver, gallbladder and pancreas.
Xenoestrogens
Xenoestrogens are chemicals that mimic estrogens (female sex hormones). These chemicals result in excess estrogen levels in people. Estrogens in abundance result in the growth of fatty tissues, namely belly fat. Xenoestrogens are found in the air, petroleum products and food (meats and dairy products). Also, aging converts androgens into estrogens. Estrogens contain cytochrome P 450 aromatase enzymes, which do the actual converting of androgens (including hormones such as testosterone) to estrogens. Androgens prevent lipids (fat and oil, also called cholesterol and triglycerides) from being stored in the belly's fat cells (adipose tissues) by blocking the signal paths to the cell tissues. What remains is carbohydrates and proteins, which constitute the cell body.
Fat Food
Estrogen creates fatty tissues in the belly. The belly's cells generate more estrogen. This cycle continuously repeats itself, which is why belly fat is very difficult to get rid of by exercise and dieting alone. However, good fats moderate the body's hormones, which is why avoiding fats entirely in a diet will not remove belly fat. Eat foods that contain healthy fats, such as avocados and coconuts. Avoid foods that contain trans fats (read the ingredients on the labels of products you purchase at the grocery store).
Reduce Estrogen
To counteract the body's production of estrogen, your body must produce antioxidant metabolites. Flavonoids and indoles are chemical compounds (referred to as phytonutrients) that reduce estrogen levels in the body. These estrogen-fighting compounds are found in citrus fruits, a variety of vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage), garlic and onions. To further inhibit estrogen, eat fatty fish such as salmon and foods containing omega-3 fatty acids. Minimize your consumption of foods that contain animal fat, corn, and canola. Cook with olive oil. Replace snacks like potato chips with nuts or sunflower seeds.
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