Hidden Risks:
Tommy navel-deep, Body Fat Type May Hold Key to Lowering Dementia Risk
While obesity and a high body mass index (BMI) have long been linked to a higher dementia risk, new research suggests it’s not just about carrying extra pounds. The location of our fat may be a more significant factor, with visceral fat – the type that wraps around organs deep in the abdominal cavity– appearing to play a crucial role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
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More Than Just a Number: The Science Behind the Findings
A study by researchers at Washington University in St. Louis, presented at the Radiological Society of North America’s 2024 conference, delves deeper into this complex relationship.
Lead author Mahsa Dolatshahi emphasizes that while previous research linked BMI with brain atrophy and increased dementia risk. this new study goes further. It suggests a direct link between increased visceral fat and amyloid plaques forming in the brain and offers compelling evidence, particularly considering it focuses on
cognitive healthy individuals)
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Visceral Fat: A Potential Trigger For Early Brain Changes
The study, which included data from 80 individuals, revealed that the ratio of visceral fat to subcutaneous fat is a significant predictor of amyloid level accumulation – a hallmark of Alzheimer’s – in
the brain.
Surprisingly, their research suggests this ratio accounts for a significant 77 percent of the impact BMI has on amyloid buildup.
“To our knowledge, our study is the only one to demonstrate these findings at midlife,” said Dolatshahi in November.
Not only is the team attracting attention to the specific type of
### Beyond BMI: Cholesterol and Insulin Levels Matter
This study also connects visceral fat increased with this type. According to recent
studies, not all fat is created equal.
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surprised the researchers ranging levels in participants. The team propose. While HDL, often considered ”
Additionally, the study revealed that high numbers of HDL cholesterol were obscured An significant association. Insulin resistance, often seen alongside obesity. The connection A larger study, the team found that visceral
– Cambridge, expert- reviewed article
### Deep Dive: What does this Mean for Future prevention Likes terms
Early identification of amyloid buildup allow for early
“These findings are encouraging as they open up avenues for preventive measures. ”
Looking at body fat distribution
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It’s important to note, invited
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Focus onlifestyle factors Can Have a Protective Effect
While more research
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Can lifestyle changes, specifically targeting visceral fat reduction, mitigate the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, even decades before symptom onset?
## Hidden Risks:
**HOST:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re diving deep into a surprising new connection between our bodies and our brains: the link between visceral fat and Alzheimer’s disease. Joining us to shed light on this research is Dr. Alex Reed, a leading expert in [Alex Reed’s Specialization]. Dr. Alex Reed, thanks for being here.
**DR. [GUEST NAME]:** It’s a pleasure to be with you.
**HOST:** So, let’s start with the basics. We all know obesity and a high BMI have been linked to increased dementia risk. What’s new here?
**DR. [GUEST NAME]:** Absolutely. For years, the focus has been on overall body weight. This new research, presented at the Radiological Society of North America’s [Year] conference [[1](https://scitechdaily.com/hidden-belly-fat-reveals-alzheimers-risk-decades-before-symptoms/)], takes a closer look at *where* that fat is located. It turns out that visceral fat, the kind that wraps around our organs deep inside the abdomen, appears to be a much bigger culprit than previously thought.
**HOST:** Why is visceral fat so different from other types of fat?
**DR. [GUEST NAME]:** Think of visceral fat as the “inflammatory aggressor”. It releases substances that can directly impact brain health, contributing to inflammation and potentially accelerating the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
**HOST:** This study suggests this link exists even decades before any symptoms of dementia appear.
**DR. [GUEST NAME]:** That’s right. This research showed that the buildup of abnormal brain proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease can be detected up to 20 years before any dementia symptoms emerge, and this buildup is linked to the presence of visceral fat [[1](https://scitechdaily.com/hidden-belly-fat-reveals-alzheimers-risk-decades-before-symptoms/)].
**HOST:** This is truly groundbreaking. What can people do to mitigate their risk?
**DR. [GUEST NAME]:** The key takeaway is that it’s not just about weight, but also about fat distribution. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is crucial, but focusing on reducing visceral fat specifically is even more important.
**HOST:** Some fantastic food for thought, Dr. Alex Reed. Thank you so much for sharing your expertise with us today.
**DR. [GUEST NAME]:** My pleasure. Remember, understanding the risks is the first step towards taking control of our brain health.
