Your waistline could predict Alzheimer’s: New study reveals the risk

This midlife link emphasises the importance of monitoring body fat, not only BMI, for long-term brain health.

Screenshot 2024 12 02 at 12.57.27 PM
Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Visceral fat, also referred to as “belly fat” or “skinny fat,” may considerably raise the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a new study. This midlife link emphasises the importance of monitoring body fat, not only BMI, for long-term brain health.

1.Visceral Fat and Alzheimer’s Connection

American researchers found a strong correlation between amyloid protein accumulation in the brain, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease, and visceral fat, which envelops important organs. It may surprise you to learn that carrying this hidden fat can put you at risk even if your BMI is healthy.

2. It’s Important to Detect Early

The study, which involved adults in their 40s and 50s, highlights the fact that brain alterations linked to Alzheimer’s disease start decades before symptoms manifest. A crucial window for preventive measures is presented by this early detection phase.

3. Reduce Weight, Preserve Your Mind

The start of Alzheimer’s disease may be considerably postponed or prevented, according to researchers, if visceral fat is reduced through diet and exercise. Given that visceral fat is responsible for 77% of obesity-related brain alterations, midlife lifestyle adjustments could be revolutionary.

4. An Increase in Dementia

By 2040, there will likely be 1.5 million dementia sufferers in the UK, up from the current almost one million. The condition costs the country £43 billion a year, and as the population ages, that amount is expected to treble in the next 20 years.

5. Assessing Your Danger

As a quick method of measuring visceral fat, experts advise keeping an eye on waist size. An elevated risk may be indicated by a waistline that is greater than 80 cm for women and 94 cm for males. Both your brain and your heart can be protected with early intervention.

Taking control of visceral fat today could protect your cognitive health for years to come, according to this study.

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