Weight gain that is concentrated in the waist and arms , but not the thigh or chest , can influenced by several factors.
Possible reasons:
1. Hormones Imbalance:
Cortisol ( stress hormones)
Estrogen or androgen imbalance
2. Insulin resistance:
Fat gain around the mid section and arms can be
Early sign of insulin resistance
Common in PCOS - even in women with a normal
Weight.
3. Genetics :
Your genetics make up may predispose you to store
Fat in certain areas
4. Lack of muscle in lower body :
If you don’t train lower body muscle , fat may not
Store there as easily.
Less muscle in thighs = less metabolic demond =
Less fat storage .
5. Diet and physical activity:
A diet high in refined carbs, sugars and processed
Foods can be lead to central fat gain
Lack of strength training, especially for lower body ,
Could means less fat and muscle in the thigh .
What we can do
✅. Get tested for
Hormone Panel
Fasting insulin and glucose
PCOS screening
✅ Nutritional tips :
Focus on anti inflammatory, balanced meals:
Good protein, healthy fats and fiber rich carbs
Avoid refined carbs,
sugar , excess salt and processed
Snacks
Includes: flaxseed, chia seeds , lentils and crucifers veggies to help hormones balance
✅ Exercise strategy:
Includes resistance training for thigh and glutes 2-3
Per week
Add HIIT or metabolic workout to target visceral fat
Strengthen your arms but don’t skip leg day