Say "NO" to the Dad Bod

Don’t Let the “Dad Bod” Fool You: The Hidden Dangers of Belly Fat in Men

Have you noticed your dad developing a “beer belly”? Is it really from drinking too much beer—or is there more to the story?

The term “Dad Bod” has become a lighthearted way to describe middle-aged men with soft bellies and a laid-back attitude. But while the name may sound harmless or even endearing, the truth behind the belly can be a serious health concern.

 
Abdominal Obesity: The Reality in Malaysia
According to the 2023 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS):

The rate of abdominal obesity among Malaysian adults rose from 45.4% in 2011 to 54.5% in 2023.

For men, a waist circumference over 90 cm is considered abdominal obesity—making middle-aged men a high-risk group.
Belly fat often coexists with the “three highs”: high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol, which are major risk factors for non-communicable diseases in Malaysia.

Why Do Men Get Belly Fat More Easily?
 

• Hormonal Differences
  Men naturally have higher testosterone levels, which tend to drive fat storage toward the abdomen, unlike women who store more in the hips and thighs.
• Testosterone Drops After 40
  As men age, testosterone decreases—leading to more visceral fat and a growing belly.
• Sedentary Lifestyle
  NHMS 2023 reports that over 50% of adults sit for more than 2 hours per day, and 84% rarely exercise.
• Poor Sleep & High Stress
  More than a third of adults suffer from sleep deprivation, and chronic stress contributes to weight gain and abdominal fat.
• Unhealthy Eating Habits
  95.1% of Malaysian adults do not meet daily fruit and vegetable intake.
• High intake of sugar-sweetened beverages and processed food is common.
  Western-style diets are linked to faster weight gain and belly fat accumulation.

What Are the Health Risks of Belly Fat?

• Metabolic Syndrome: A cluster of conditions including insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and unhealthy cholesterol levels.
• Increased Risk of Heart Disease & Stroke: Larger waistlines are strongly associated with cardiovascular risks.
• Higher Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Closely linked to visceral fat and high waist circumference.
• Chronic Inflammation: Fat cells release inflammatory substances that disrupt immunity and increase disease risk.
   

How to Beat the “Dad Bod” – 3 Steps to Better Health

1. Exercise: Not Much, But Consistently
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week.
Include core and resistance training 2+ times a week. HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) is especially effective in burning belly fat.

2. Eat Smarter, Cut the Junk
Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and fatty fish (Omega-3 supports fat metabolism).
Reduce sugary drinks and fast food—a key step in reducing insulin resistance and belly fat.
Add a daily cup of Stolle ImmNuPlus and Vigor Plus to support inflammation control and immune health.

3. Sleep & Stress Management
Get at least 7 hours of sleep per night. Poor sleep is strongly linked to abdominal obesity.
Practice stress-reducing activities to prevent emotional eating.
 
This Father’s Day, Go Beyond “I Love You”
Support your dad’s health by helping him fight the hidden dangers of the “Dad Bod”. A daily health routine with Stolle ImmNuPlus Immune Milk and CoCurVital Turmeric Drink can provide natural support for the immune system, inflammation, liver health, and overall vitality.

Because real love is about showing you care—even when he doesn’t ask.