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You are here: Experts > Health/Fitness > Substance Abuse > Addiction to Alcohol > Beer belly
Expert: Druideck - 10/30/2009
Question
Hi
I am worried about my husband.
He used to be a heavy drinker, getting pissed at least once a week.
Now its once a month when he has a binge-drinks enough to get drunk and pass out (thankfully he only does this at home now) and at least one more monthly episode of more than six drinks at one session.
He is slowly improving and is not abusive or anything, but I am worried about his health especially his big belly.
He isnt 'chubby' fat but has a big belly that is hard and sticks out like he's pregnant.
He actually eats pretty healthy and doesnt over eat, and gets a lot of exercise.That is part of the problem as he goes to the bar and drinks after a ball or soccer game with his buddies.
BUT, he drinks a lot with his buddies.Mostly beer, but some liquor.
Is this what is causing the belly? He complains about it because he does eat healthy and not much and exercises lots.Is his liver or pancreas or something bloated?
If he quit drinking or cut way back would it help? He thinks he just has to find the right diet or do more crunches, but if he hears it from an expert maybe he will listen.
Thanks!
Answer
Vanessa,
There are many causes for the "Beer belly" and most
of them are not beer.
However, liver disfunction can result in a build
up of abdominal fluids. This is something you
should check out with a doctor.
Other belly protrusions can be caused by
visceral fat which builds up closer to
the inside of the belly near the various
internal organs. This is usually a firmer
feeling build up compared to the looser
outer layered fat layer under the skin.
Again diagnosis should be done with a medical exam.
Cardiovascular problems are another possibility
so exercise and diet may not always be
the whole solution. Cutting back on excess drinking
is always healthy for many reasons.
I would advise getting that belly checked out
to eliminate any medical problems.
Then the diet and exercise may have more good effects.
Take care and good health to you both.
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