When it comes to our health, we’ve often been told to “watch the scales.” But new research suggests it’s not just the numbers on the weighing machine that matter where the fat sits on our body could play a bigger role than we think. Specifically, fat stored around the belly might raise the risk of psoriasis in women.
What’s the link?
Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that can cause red, itchy, scaly patches. It doesn’t just affect appearance, it can impact confidence, comfort, and overall quality of life. Doctors have long known that being overweight can increase the likelihood of psoriasis, but this study shows that belly fat in particular could be the bigger culprit.
The research found that women with more abdominal fat were more likely to develop psoriasis, regardless of their genetic risk. In other words, even if you don’t have a family history of psoriasis, excess belly fat can independently heighten your chances.
Why the belly?
Abdominal fat isn’t just “extra weight.” It’s what’s called visceral fat, which sits deep around vital organs. Unlike fat in other areas, this type is especially active in producing inflammatory chemicals. Since psoriasis itself is an inflammatory condition, the link begins to make sense, more belly fat can mean more inflammation, which may trigger or worsen psoriasis.
What this means for women
The takeaway isn’t about obsessing over body size or achieving an impossible flat stomach. Rather, it’s about recognising waist circumference as an important health marker. Many of us focus on weight in general, but where it’s stored matters just as much.
For women, hormonal changes, lifestyle habits, and stress can all influence how fat is distributed, often leading to that stubborn “middle area” weight gain. This makes monitoring belly fat even more relevant when it comes to preventing conditions like psoriasis.
Managing the risk
The good news is that lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Simple habits such as regular exercise, balanced meals, and stress management don’t just help trim the waistline, they also reduce inflammation in the body overall. Even small, sustainable steps can lower the risk of psoriasis flare-ups or, for some, help keep the condition at bay altogether.
The bigger picture
It’s important to note that not every woman with belly fat will develop psoriasis, and not every woman with psoriasis has excess belly fat. Genetics, environment, and lifestyle all play a role. Still, this study shines a light on the importance of moving beyond just “weight” as a number, and considering how fat distribution affects women’s health in specific ways.