New Research Shows Belly Fat May Increase Alzheimer’s Risk 15 Years Before Symptoms
New findings from the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) suggest that even though it might not be visible, deep belly fat could be a hidden indicator of potential Alzheimer’s risk. According to the research released by the RSNA, visceral fat, which surrounds internal organs, has been linked to brain changes that may indicate future dementia, affecting individuals as young as 50, up to 15 years before symptoms appear.
The study, which will be presented at the RSNA’s upcoming annual meeting, examined MRIs and PET scans of 54 participants between the ages of 40 and 60 who were considered “cognitively healthy.” Researchers assessed the participants’ BMI, obesity levels, blood glucose, and abdominal fatty tissue.
Dr. Mahsa Dolatshahi, the study’s author, emphasized that this research is unique in its focus on a specific type of fat and its connection to Alzheimer’s disease protein in people without any cognitive impairment. The study also highlights the difference between visceral and subcutaneous fat, particularly in terms of Alzheimer’s amyloid pathology, especially in midlife.
The findings show that individuals with more visceral fat exhibited higher levels of amyloid in the brain and increased inflammation, with men experiencing a stronger correlation than women. The study suggests the potential for new targeted treatments based on these discoveries. The hope is that these findings will help in identifying Alzheimer’s risk earlier and lead to increased awareness of the link between body and brain health. The researchers acknowledge that this is only the beginning and more research is necessary to make substantial progress.
Dr. Marc Siegel, a clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, stressed the importance of these findings, as belly fat is known to be linked to inflammation that can impact brain function and potentially accelerate Alzheimer’s. The hope is that through increased awareness and continued research, millions of Americans diagnosed with Alzheimer’s could benefit from potential preventive measures.
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