Recent studies indicate that visceral fat (the concealed belly fat located deep within the abdomen) may contribute to the accelerated aging of your heart.

In contrast to subcutaneous fat, which resides just beneath the skin, visceral fat envelops vital organs like the stomach, liver, and intestines. Individuals with elevated visceral fat levels might present as slimmer or even possess a healthy body mass index (BMI) and weight.

“Staying active is crucial, but our findings reveal that this hidden fat can pose risks even for those who seem healthy,” states Professor Declan Olegan, who led the research.

This research has been published in European Heart Journal. Scientists at the Medical Research Council of London (MRC) Institute of Medical Sciences examined data from 21,241 participants in the UK Biobank.

Whole-body imaging was utilized to analyze fat distribution, along with an in-depth investigation of the heart and blood vessels. Artificial intelligence was implemented to estimate a “heart age” for each participant, reflecting signs of organ aging, such as hardened or inflamed tissue.

The study identified notable differences between genders. Men are prone to accumulating visceral fat in the abdomen, often resulting in expedited heart aging.

Conversely, women have a genetic tendency to store fat around the waist and thighs, resulting in a “pear shape,” which may decelerate heart aging. Elevated estrogen levels in premenopausal women are linked to reduced heart aging, indicating that hormones might play a significant role in organ protection.

Blood analyses revealed a correlation between visceral fat and increased inflammation, suggesting another factor that could contribute to premature aging.

Professor Brian Williams, Chief Science Officer and Medical Officer at the British Heart Foundation, stated: “We are already aware that excess visceral fat around the heart and liver can result in increased blood pressure and high cholesterol, which may further accelerate heart and blood vessel aging.”

“The typical pattern of fat distribution observed in women is influenced by estrogen, suggesting that hormones could be pivotal in developing future treatments for cardiac aging.

“Adopting healthier eating habits and increasing physical activity can aid in lowering visceral fat levels.”

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