Study Links Visceral Fat to Early Alzheimer’s Risk Decades Before Symptoms

Researchers find that deep belly fat correlates with brain protein buildup associated with Alzheimer’s, suggesting prevention strategies may start in midlife.

A study presented at the Radiological Society of North America links visceral fat to increased levels of amyloid and tau proteins, hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease, up to 20 years before symptoms appear.
The research involved 80 cognitively healthy midlife participants, with an average age of 49, over half of whom were classified as obese with an average BMI of 32.31.
Visceral fat was found to account for 77% of the impact of high BMI on Alzheimer’s-related protein buildup, while other fat types showed no similar correlation.
Higher levels of insulin resistance and lower HDL cholesterol were also associated with increased amyloid accumulation, emphasizing the importance of addressing metabolic factors.
Experts suggest lifestyle changes, such as reducing visceral fat through diet, exercise, or FDA-approved weight-loss drugs, could help lower Alzheimer’s risk and improve brain health.