Leonardo DiCaprio’s ‘dad bod’ puts spotlight on dangerous belly fat — and how to lose it

Recent beach photos of Leonardo DiCaprio have brought renewed attention to the “dad bod” and whether extra weight around the middle can signal health risks. Appearance alone cannot determine someone’s health, but excess abdominal fat, especially visceral fat around the organs, is associated with higher risks of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Trainer Marfred Suazo says a growing waist can reflect eating and drinking more while moving less and losing muscle. US health guidance identifies a waist circumference over 40 inches for men as a higher-risk marker, and recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week, plus muscle-strengthening exercise on two or more days. Suazo advises balanced nutrition, full-body strength training and cardio; abdominal exercises alone cannot reduce fat in one specific area.