Visceral fat, a dangerous type of deep belly fat, wraps around vital organs, triggering inflammation that can lead to insulin resistance, chronic diseases, and cognitive decline, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Experts explain how to identify it (waistline, DEXA scan, lean muscle mass) and emphasize that it's reversible through lifestyle changes like cardio, strength training, and plant-based diets (e.g., Mediterranean diet) and potentially intermittent fasting.
Deep belly fat triggers inflammation. Here’s how to reduce it
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️Visceral fat, a dangerous type of deep belly fat, wraps around vital organs, triggering inflammation that can lead to insulin resistance, chronic diseases, and cognitive decline, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Experts explain how to identify it (waistline, DEXA scan, lean muscle mass) and emphasize that it's reversible through lifestyle changes like cardio, strength training, and plant-based diets (e.g., Mediterranean diet) and potentially intermittent fasting.
Trending- 1 October 2023: Study on Mediterranean diet and exercise for older people published.
- 2 May 2024: Study on Mediterranean dietary pattern and reduced death risk for women published.
- 3 Ongoing: Research and recommendations for reducing visceral fat.
- Increased risk of insulin resistance
- Cardiovascular disease
- Fatty liver
- Type 2 diabetes
- Brain atrophy
- Alzheimer's disease
- Parkinson's disease
- Shortened lifespan
- Lifestyle changes can reverse visceral fat
What: The health risks associated with visceral fat (deep belly fat), including inflammation, insulin resistance, cardiovascular risk, fatty liver, Type 2 diabetes, brain atrophy, and increased risk of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. The article also details methods for identifying and reducing visceral fat through lifestyle changes.
When: Accelerated march toward dementia can begin as early as the 40s and 50s. October 2023 study mentioned. May 2024 study mentioned.
Where: Denver (National Jewish Health), Boca Raton, Florida (Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases), Cleveland Clinic, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Why: Visceral fat secretes inflammatory chemicals, leading to various negative health outcomes. The article aims to inform the public about these risks and provide actionable steps for prevention and reduction.
How: Visceral fat can be identified by waistline measurement, DEXA scans, and assessing lean muscle mass. It can be reduced through lifestyle changes: regular cardio (30 mins brisk walking daily), strength training (resistance exercises like dead lifts, lunges, planks, presses, pull-ups, push-ups), adopting plant-based diets (e.g., Mediterranean diet), and potentially intermittent fasting. Consulting a doctor or physical trainer is recommended.