Belly fat could predict Alzheimer’s risk 20 years early, says new study
A recent study has highlighted a noteworthy connection between belly fat and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting that a physical sign of the disease could emerge on the body long before any memory-related symptoms become apparent. While the typical indicators of Alzheimer’s include gradual memory loss and shifts in behaviour and mood, researchers have identified a correlation between visceral fat, which surrounds vital organs like the stomach, liver, and intestines, and abnormal brain proteins linked to Alzheimer’s. This relationship could potentially manifest up to two decades before other signs of the disease start to show.
Visceral fat, often referred to as “hidden fat,” can be assessed using various methods such as measuring waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and body shape. A recent study conducted by scientists at Washington University School of Medicine involved 80 cognitively healthy adults with an average age of 49, over half of whom were classified as obese with an average body mass index (BMI) well above the healthy range. Through PET and MRI scans, the researchers scrutinised the distribution of body fat and brain chemistry, specifically monitoring the accumulation of amyloid and tau proteins that are key indicators of Alzheimer’s.
The findings of the study revealed a significant association between elevated levels of visceral fat and an increase in the build-up of amyloid and tau proteins in the brain. Lead author of the study Dr Mahsa Dolatshahi disclosed, “Higher visceral fat was associated with higher PET levels of the two hallmark pathologic proteins of Alzheimer’s disease—amyloid and tau.” Moreover, the research uncovered that visceral fat accounted for a large proportion of the impact of high BMI on protein accumulation, unlike other types of fat. Additionally, heightened insulin resistance and reduced levels of HDL cholesterol were linked to heightened brain protein build-up. A waist circumference exceeding 35 inches for women and 40 inches for men typically indicates an unhealthy level of visceral fat.
Commenting on the significance of these findings, senior author Dr Cyrus A Raji emphasised the implications for managing Alzheimer’s risk in individuals with obesity, suggesting that addressing related metabolic and lipid issues associated with high body fat could potentially lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. In the UK, a substantial proportion of adults are classified as overweight or obese, underscoring the importance of adopting lifestyle modifications or weight-loss strategies to mitigate Alzheimer’s risk.
Insights and Summary:
The study sheds light on the potential of using visceral fat as an early predictor of Alzheimer’s disease, offering a new perspective on the interplay between metabolic health and brain function. By identifying the role of visceral fat in influencing brain protein accumulation, the research underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy weight and addressing associated metabolic factors to potentially reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. These findings could pave the way for targeted interventions aimed at managing Alzheimer’s risk in individuals with obesity, highlighting the value of lifestyle modifications and weight-loss strategies in maintaining cognitive health.