How can I tell between fat and bloating?
I’m very toned and active female teen, but for a few weeks my stomach has been big. It wasn’t gradual, because one day I just suddenly noticed it. Is this really bloating, cause I not fat anywhere else? Could it be PMS? I don’t think it should bloat for so long though, right?
August 13th, 2010 at 7:31 am
PMS symptoms shouldn’t last for several weeks.
Remember the old "pinch and inch" rule? You can check subcutaneous fat by squeezing skin at various points. If it’s internal belly fat, though, which is the worst kind because it poisons your system, there’s no way of checking except with an impedance device, water displacement tests, or something like an MRI.
If your subcutaneous fat is still low, belly fat is unlikely, and your body may be experiencing prologued bloating — in which case, you may want to ask a doctor for help.
"Abdominal bloating is quite common and in the majority of cases will not be caused by anything serious. Excessive gas due to dietary factors, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or difficulty absorbing certain foods are amongst the most common causes. If your abdominal bloating is prolonged, severe, or if you have other worrying symptoms (e.g. diarrhea, constipation, weight loss, or bleeding) it is extremely important you see your doctor so they can exclude serious conditions."
http://www.virtualmedicalcentre.com/symptoms.asp?sid=53