Armpit fat is not just unattractive; it can also be a sign of health problems.
Although excess fat, in general, is known to cause problems, the most common forms of fat in the body are subcutaneous, which is found just under the skin.
Some of these problems could include insulin resistance and diabetes.
While armpit fat finds many people as a surprise, it is not a new phenomenon and has been seen in some different cultures.
The increase in obesity over time has led many experts to believe that hormonal changes may cause the excess fat that is formed in this region.
Armpit fat can also signify endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism and adrenal gland problems, often found among older people. Here are some causes of armpit fat.
Continue reading to find out more.
1. Being Overweight
Many overweight people could have extra fat accumulation in the armpit region. This causes the fat accumulates around the armpits and may be a sign of health problems. When obesity is not treated or controlled, it can lead to heart disease and diabetes.
In addition to causing armpit fat, being overweight can lead to many other health problems. For example, insulin resistance may occur due to increased body mass index (BMI). As a result, this could cause more problems like diabetes and heart disease, leading to more fat storage in the body, especially in the armpit region.
2. Posture
Another cause of armpit fat that is typically overlooked is posture. Gravity may pull your body weight toward the feet when you stand in a reclined position. This can also cause your head to have a forward tilt. As a result, you could cause fat storage in the armpit region and may develop an unattractive bulge around your armpits.
3. Genetics
If you are wondering what causes armpit fat, your doctor may look at your family medical history and help you determine if it is genetic-related. This would include endocrine disorders, thyroid problems, and other hormonal problems. The doctor will likely also look at your genetic profile, revealing if you are predisposed to put on fat around the armpit area. People with relatives experiencing armpit fat are more likely to have this problem.
4. Hormonal Changes
Armpit fat can also signify hormonal problems, which may develop over time. For example, older people may start to store fat around the armpit due to other common symptoms such as low estrogen levels in women. Since this problem is related to the thyroid gland, a doctor will likely suspect this when you exhibit armpit fat.
5. Axillary Breast Tissue
Another factor that might cause armpit fat is the presence of breast tissue in the armpit area. This can lead to unwanted breast growth as well as an unattractive appearance. These signs may be from a gynecological condition called gynecomastia, which is a condition that causes breast tissue to grow in this area.
Depending on your condition, your doctor may recommend plastic surgery to help you treat axillary breast tissue. However, you should do this before an allergy test is obtained to confirm that there are no allergies from the patient to any blood group substance or skin test allergens.
How do I Reduce Armpit Fat?
Lose Weight
There are several ways to reduce armpit fat, regardless of age or situation. The most straightforward way to reduce armpit fat for everyone is to lose weight.
You can achieve this by following a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy exercise routine, including cardio and strength-training exercises.
However, it requires patience and persistence, so creating a weight loss plan is a good idea.
Be sure to set reachable goals and help keep you motivated. In addition, ensure that you include the right foods in your diet to achieve optimum health during your weight loss journey.
However, if you are at a healthy weight but still suffer from armpit fat, your doctor may recommend an allergy test to determine any underlying causes of armpit fat.
If tests reveal that the cause is a genetic or endocrine disorder, the doctor may recommend treatments such as medication to manage this problem.
Remember, it is best to consult a doctor before making any life changes, especially before starting any treatment.
Wear Fitting Undergarments
In addition, wearing fitting undergarments can help you reduce armpit fat. That is because tight clothing can affect your posture and lead to an unattractive bulge in the armpit region. So, ensure that you wear clothing that fits you properly and does not restrict your mobility.
Exercise
Exercise can also reduce armpit fat by helping you build muscles and burn fat. In addition, it can help achieve a healthy lifestyle that could lead to weight loss. Your doctor may recommend some exercise suitable for you, such as swimming, biking, or walking on a treadmill.
As you choose your exercises, ensure that they are age and fitness appropriate to avoid hurting yourself or becoming discouraged by not achieving the desired results. In addition to cutting back on unhealthy foods and making smarter food choices, ensure that you eat healthier meals while exercising.
How Long will it take to reduce Armpit Fat?
There is no set time frame for reducing armpit fat. Factors determining how fast you can lose armpit fat include genetics, hormones, exercise routine, and diet.
However, it is generally easier to reduce armpit fat if you exercise regularly and make wise food choices. Once the cause of the armpit fat is determined by your doctor and treatment or lifestyle changes are initiated, losing armpit fat should take less time than normal weight people.
What Foods Will Help me Lose Armpit Fat?
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are a great source of fiber, which helps lower blood cholesterol, protect your heart, and promote weight loss. Consuming fruits and vegetables are also beneficial for the skin, so you need to include these foods in your meals.
Any food can contain many calories, so it is best to strive for a healthy diet and lifestyle by eating foods low in sodium, fat, and cholesterol. Also, include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet to improve your skin health, fight cancer caused by obesity, and promote weight loss.
Lean Meats
Lean meats or meats with low amounts of fat are good sources of protein that supports muscle recovery after an intense workout. When you eat protein with fiber from green vegetables and fruits, it helps lower blood cholesterol.
Whole Grains
Whole grains, especially whole wheat flour, and oatmeal, contain fiber that is great for reducing cholesterol and has been shown to reduce cancer risk. Whole grains are also a source of beneficial nutrients, including B vitamins and minerals.
Nuts
Nuts contain healthy monounsaturated fats that help lower cholesterol and triglycerides. They also contain vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant. For example, this antioxidant helps prevent cell damage that causes skin problems such as acne and can even help prevent wrinkles.
When to Visit Your Doctor?
Talk to your doctor about your concerns if you want to reduce armpit fat. They will set up a physical exam to assess your overall health and determine if the fat you suffer from is related to any underlying conditions or endocrine disorder that requires treatment.
If you have had a history of eating disorders and have not been able to keep weight off, then your doctor may recommend that you consult with a dietician. That way, you can create a plan to manage this condition.
This is especially important if you have breast endocrine problems such as gynecomastia or cystic fibrosis. Consult your specialist today if you want to know more about medical conditions that may affect armpit fat.