Although a Beer Belly isn't solely caused by the consumption of beer, it certainly helps. It is characterised by a horizontal belt-overhang, with little apparent fat on the rest of the body. Beer bellies are usually associated with men, as women tend to store excess fat in other areas such as the hips and buttocks. Lack of muscle tone in the abdominal muscles contributes to the appearance of the beer belly, with the overhang often increasing with age.

For more information on fat, see the entry on Obesity.