How can I lose belly fat on a ketogenic diet?

By Dr. Stephen Phinney and the Virta Team

Losing central fat (belly fat) is one of the many benefits of a well-formulated ketogenic diet. However, where we store fat and where we lose fat in one area compared to other areas on our body is partially dependent on genetics.  Another factor in our appearance after weight loss is how quickly our abdominal muscles shorten following the loss of internal (aka visceral) fat. For example, if you lose 6 inches off your waist, your abdominal muscles will need to shorten by a few inches.  This not done by contracting – they actually need to get physically shorter at rest, and this takes 6-12 months to occur by natural processes. In the meantime, your belly looks soft.

Bottom line: it takes a bit of patience to lose fat and then see the full benefits that we expect.

Back to Keto FAQ

Related blog posts

Dr. Stephen Phinney on Nutritional Ketosis and Ketogenic Diets: Video Series - Dr. Stephen Phinney put together a three-part video series on ketogenic diets and nutritional ketosis. You'll learn the nutrition science ... Read More
Ketone Supplements: The Pros and Cons - Ketone supplements rapidly and transiently increase blood concentrations of BOHB. On the surface, this seems like it should promote positive ... Read More
Foods that contain protein How Much Protein Do You Need In Nutritional Ketosis? - When embarking on a well-formulated ketogenic diet and going through the process of keto-adaptation, there are necessary changes in how ... Read More