Many women who have given birth may have been slimmer before pregnancy, but after delivery, they often develop excess abdominal fat and unsightly stretch marks. To address this, Public Health Network interviewed Dr. Xiao Liling, Chief Physician at the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University.
Why Does Excess Fat Accumulate Around the Abdomen?
The primary cause of abdominal fat accumulation relates to the body's absorption and metabolism of calories. When the body absorbs excess calories, fat tends to deposit, primarily around the abdominal area. This is because the abdomen is predominantly composed of smooth muscle, which is controlled by the autonomic nervous system. Unlike skeletal muscle, smooth muscle readily stores fat deposits that are difficult to metabolize.Consequently, fat predominantly accumulates in the abdominal area, leading to excess belly fat.
Can olive oil skincare reduce stretch marks?
Olive oil can help diminish stretch marks. It contains unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E, which prevent collagen fiber breakdown and benefit pigmentation issues.Additionally, Dr. Xiao Liling notes that massaging with olive oil improves blood and oxygen supply to the abdominal area. This stimulates collagen secretion in the skin and supports tissue structure, making olive oil a beneficial skincare option. How to Remove Postpartum Stretch Marks There are four primary methods to remove postpartum stretch marks:
1. Essential oil therapy during early pregnancy;
2. Postpartum use of autologous platelet-rich plasma to activate growth factors and promote collagen production;
3. Nano-fat injection therapy to narrow wider stretch marks;
4. Fractional CO₂ laser treatment, which uses photothermal effects to stimulate dermal collagen formation and address stretch marks.