I’m not asking for a diagnosis, just wondering if there are reasons why this might happen. I’m 17 years old, 167 cm, and 60 kg. I don’t look fat, and I play sports four times a week. My belly is my biggest insecurity. It’s not fat rolls, but it looks round and bloated all the time, even before I eat. Could something be wrong with me? Thanks so much for your help 
It’s hard to tell because some people really do carry more weight in the belly area, but others have unrealistic expectations from seeing edited pictures online or might have body dysmorphia.
If you’re always looking bloated, it might be a good idea to check with a doctor.
Tate said:
If you’re always looking bloated, it might be a good idea to check with a doctor.
Thanks so much for the advice, I’ll look into it.
Maybe your core muscles are weak. Try doing some ab exercises and see if it helps. I tend to gain weight in my stomach, but when I worked out and strengthened my core, it made a big difference.
Hadley said:
Maybe your core muscles are weak. Try doing some ab exercises and see if it helps. I tend to gain weight in my stomach, but when I worked out and strengthened my core, it made a big difference.
Thank you so much. I’ll give it a try, you’ve been really helpful.
If it’s this persistent, I’d definitely recommend seeing a doctor. It could be related to something like endometriosis or other gynecological issues. Hormones, water retention, or intestinal problems might also cause this. For now, stay hydrated, get some fiber in your diet, and maybe try drinking distilled water with a splash of fruit juice.
@Marin
Yes. Also, maybe cut out gluten or dairy for a couple of weeks to see if it helps. Sometimes it’s just a bloating issue.
Skyler said:
@Marin
Yes. Also, maybe cut out gluten or dairy for a couple of weeks to see if it helps. Sometimes it’s just a bloating issue.
Hold off on cutting out foods for now! It’s better to see a doctor first so any tests you take are accurate.
Some people store more fat in their abdominal area due to genetics, especially certain ethnicities. This can also raise risks for issues like diabetes or heart disease. You’re still young, so focus on eating a healthy diet, staying active, sleeping well, and keeping your mental health in check.
Does anyone in your family have celiac disease? It can cause extreme bloating. My friends with it look super skinny except for their belly after eating gluten.
JamesBond said:
Does anyone in your family have celiac disease? It can cause extreme bloating. My friends with it look super skinny except for their belly after eating gluten.
I’ll ask my family about it. Thanks so much for bringing this up.
@Lior
You might also want to ask about IBS or other gut issues. They can cause a lot of bloating too.
It could be:
- A poor balance in your diet.
- You need to build more lean muscle.
- Genetics determining fat storage.
- Body dysmorphia making you see your body differently.
- Something else entirely
.
Could be your core. I started doing 100 crunches a day and my stomach started looking better. Also, watch your diet; fiber, dairy, and alcohol can all make you bloated.
Might be visceral fat, unfortunately.
Check what you’re eating. Try a high-protein, moderate-fat diet with low carbs, and drink 3–4 liters of water daily. See how you feel in about a week.