How does the hormonal activity of abdominal fat affect insulin sensitivity?

THE hormonal activity of abdominal fat significantly reduces insulin sensitivity and contributes to the development of insulin resistance. The main reasons for this are:

• Production of inflammatory substances: Visceral (abdominal) fat is a hormonally active tissue that releases various inflammatory substances (e.g. cytokines, interleukins) and hormones.

These materials They trigger inflammatory processes in the body that impair insulin signaling pathways, making cells less responsive to insulin 6 7 .

• Release of free fatty acids: Abdominal fat releases large amounts of free fatty acids into the bloodstream, which inhibit the effectiveness of insulin in muscle and liver tissues, further worsening insulin sensitivity 7 8 .

• Hormonal imbalance: The amount of belly fat is related to hormonal imbalances (e.g. estrogen, testosterone, cortisol), which also affect insulin sensitivity.

Cortisol, the stress hormone, promotes abdominal fat accumulation, which further worsens the cells' sensitivity to insulin 5 6 .

• Vicious circle: Increased abdominal fat increases insulin resistance, which leads to more insulin production, which further increases fat deposition, especially in the abdominal area, and maintains an inflammatory state 2 6 7 .

In summary:

The hormonal activity of abdominal fat significantly impairs insulin sensitivity through the production of inflammatory substances and free fatty acids, as well as hormonal imbalances, thus playing a central role in the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.