Visceral fat and brain aging

A new study suggests that visceral fat, which is stored deep within the abdomen around organs like the liver and pancreas, might influence how quickly the brain ages. This type of fat is different from subcutaneous fat, which is found just beneath the skin and is more visible in a person's body shape.

Limitations of BMI

The study points out that body mass index (BMI), a commonly used measure of body fat, does not differentiate between visceral and subcutaneous fat. This means BMI might not accurately reflect a person's metabolic or brain health, as the two types of fat have different effects on the body.

Reducing visceral fat benefits health

Researchers highlight that reducing visceral fat during midlife could help maintain both metabolic and brain health. Dr. Dafna Pachter, who led the study from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, explains that weight alone does not reflect the internal changes happening in the body, such as those related to metabolism.

Study findings and data source

The study’s conclusions are based on a reanalysis of data from individuals who participated in diet and lifestyle trials. These trials were led by Professor Iris Shai from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. The findings suggest that even small, sustained reductions in visceral fat can help preserve brain structure and slow its decline.