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A recent study cautions that excessive visceral fat, which accumulates deep in the abdomen and encases vital organs, may hasten the aging of the heart and blood vessels. In contrast to subcutaneous fat, which lies just under the skin, visceral fat presents greater health dangers because of its close proximity to vital internal organs.
Visceral fat, which is not visible externally, can accumulate significantly in individuals even if they maintain a healthy weight. The study revealed through blood tests that visceral fat is linked with heightened inflammation in the body, potentially contributing to accelerated aging.
The research group examined imaging scans from over 21,000 participants in the UK Biobank, focusing on their cardiovascular systems and the distribution of visceral versus subcutaneous fat. Employing artificial intelligence, they identified indicators of organ aging, such as inflamed and rigid tissues, and calculated a heart age for each individual. Participants whose heart age surpassed their actual age generally exhibited higher visceral fat accumulation.
The study also identified evidence from blood tests linking visceral fat to elevated inflammation levels in the body, a factor that may contribute to accelerated aging.
The research team identified distinct sex-based differences in the relationship between fat distribution and heart aging. In men, abdominal fat, often described as an "apple" shape, was associated with accelerated cardiovascular aging. Conversely, in women, fat accumulation around the hips and thighs, known as a "pear" shape, appeared to offer protection against premature heart aging.
Determining the amount of visceral fat in the body is challenging. Although body mass index (BMI) has traditionally been used to assess obesity and predict associated health risks, the study found that BMI was not correlated with heart aging. Instead, the distribution of fat, particularly visceral fat, emerged as a more critical factor in evaluating cardiovascular aging.
The study highlights the critical need to lower visceral fat through improved dietary habits and regular physical activity. Adopting a healthier diet and increasing exercise can effectively reduce visceral fat levels.
To view the original scientific study click below:
Sex-specific body fat distribution predicts cardiovascular ageing
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