KUWAIT CITY, Nov 21, (Agencies): Groundbreaking research suggests that inflammation stemming from belly fat may be associated with the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, potentially decades before symptoms manifest. Dr. Richard Isaacson, a preventive neurologist specializing in Alzheimer's at the Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases of Florida, commented on the findings, noting the correlation between increasing belly size and a decrease in the brain's memory centers.

The study, conducted by Dr. Cyrus Raji, senior author and associate professor of radiology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, discovered that individuals in their 40s and 50s with higher levels of hidden belly fat exhibited increased amounts of the abnormal protein amyloid in a crucial part of the brain associated with early Alzheimer's development. Amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer's, were found to be more prevalent in those with greater visceral fat.

Interestingly, the study observed a gender difference, with men showing a higher correlation between belly fat and amyloid than women. This distinction is attributed to the higher visceral fat levels typically found in men.

Furthermore, the research revealed a connection between deep belly fat and brain atrophy in the hippocampus, a key area of the brain's memory center. Brain atrophy is considered another biomarker of Alzheimer's disease.

Dr. Mahsa Dolatshahi, lead author and postdoctoral research fellow at Washington University School of Medicine, highlighted the study's additional finding that individuals with higher visceral fat also tended to exhibit more inflammation in widespread white matter tracks in the brain. This inflammation in white matter tracks can impede effective communication between different parts of the brain and the body.

The study, initially a pilot with 32 participants aged 40 to 60, expanded to include a total of 52 individuals. Despite the modest nature of the brain changes observed, Dr. Raji emphasized their significance, particularly since the study focused on midlife individuals, unlike previous studies examining older age groups.

The research sheds light on the potential for early detection of Alzheimer's pathology by identifying a pathological link to visceral fat. Dr. Raji suggests intervention strategies could be explored in this population.

Visceral fat, distinct from subcutaneous fat, is known for its location deep within the abdomen, wrapping around vital organs. It is more metabolically active and can trigger insulin resistance, a precursor to various chronic diseases, including diabetes.

While full-body MRIs and body scans are precise methods for measuring visceral fat, estimates based on waist circumference or waist-to-height ratio are more common. The Cleveland Clinic recommends a waist size of 35 inches or more for women and 40 inches or more for men as indicators of potential health issues related to visceral fat.

Dr. Raji advises individuals, regardless of weight, to be aware of hidden visceral fat, which can be overlooked by using traditional measures like BMI or weight on the scale. Even thin individuals can have excess visceral fat, a phenomenon known as "skinny fat" or "TOFI" (thin outside, fat inside).

The good news is that visceral fat responds well to diet and exercise, making it easier to lose compared to subcutaneous fat. Dietary and exercise recommendations include a healthy diet, regular exercise, muscle strength training a few times a week, and fat-burning, less intense cardio sessions. Additional tips include reducing ultraprocessed foods, cutting portion sizes, replacing sugary drinks with water, limiting processed meats, and reducing the consumption of high-fat dairy products.

Alcohol intake and sleep patterns also play a role in visceral fat management, with the Mayo Clinic cautioning that alcohol consumption of any kind can contribute to abdominal expansion. Additionally, adequate sleep is crucial, as studies have shown a link between insufficient sleep and elevated levels of amyloid in the brain.