Which Part Of Your Body Holds Onto Fat The Longest?

Dr. Block, a renowned expert in weight loss, explains that when it comes to shedding excess fat, the body tends to follow a specific pattern. Generally, the first area where individuals typically notice fat loss is in the abdominal region. However, it’s important to note that gender can play a role in fat distribution. Women, for instance, often experience weight loss throughout their bodies but may retain fat in their thighs and hips even as they lose weight elsewhere. This natural variation in fat loss patterns can be influenced by factors such as genetics and hormonal differences. (Updated on August 31, 2023)

When it comes to the order in which the body burns fat, it’s important to understand that fat loss typically begins with the reduction of “hard fat,” also known as visceral fat, which is the fat that surrounds vital organs such as the liver and kidneys. Subsequently, the body tends to target “soft fat,” which includes fat deposits in areas like the belly, thighs, and back. For women, it’s worth noting that they often store fat cells in regions like the belly, hips, and thighs, which can be some of the last areas to see significant fat loss during the weight loss process. This information helps clarify the sequence in which the body burns fat and the specific areas that may be more resistant to fat reduction. [Source: Updated knowledge as of September 2021.]

The location where your body stores excess fat is influenced by a combination of factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and dietary habits. For certain individuals, the upper belly area tends to be particularly stubborn when it comes to losing fat. This means that, despite regular exercise efforts, fat may persist in this region. It’s important to note that the rate and pattern of fat loss can vary from person to person, and genetics can play a significant role in determining where fat is most resistant to reduction. This information was reported on October 2, 2019.