Alzheimer’s disease could be predicted by certain type of fat 20 years in advance
Excess fat has long been known to be a risk factor for various health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. However, new research is shedding light on the connection between obesity and Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia.
A recent study presented at the annual Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) meeting in Chicago found that hidden fat in certain parts of the body could be an early warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease, up to 20 years before symptoms appear. The study, led by Dr. Mahsa Dolatshahi and her team at the Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology (MIR) at the Washington University School of Medicine, focused on the relationship between different types of body fat and Alzheimer’s disease pathologies.
Among the various types of body fat studied, visceral fat, or hidden belly fat, was found to be the most significant predictor of Alzheimer’s disease pathologies. The researchers assessed 80 middle-aged adults who did not have cognitive impairment, with over half of them categorized as obese. The study used MRI technology to measure body fat in different areas of the body, as well as insulin resistance and HDL cholesterol levels.
The findings revealed that higher levels of visceral fat were associated with the accumulation of amyloid and tau proteins in the brain, which are hallmark indicators of Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, insulin resistance and lower HDL cholesterol levels were linked to higher levels of amyloid in the brain.
Dr. Cyrus A. Raji, the senior author of the study, emphasized the importance of managing Alzheimer’s risk in obesity by addressing related metabolic and lipid issues that often accompany higher body fat. The study also highlighted how obesity and belly fat can impair blood flow to the brain, further underscoring the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for brain health.
Dr. Earnest Lee Murray, a board-certified neurologist, commented on the study’s significance, noting that the changes in the brain associated with excess fat are observed early in life. He stressed the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s later in life.
While the study had some limitations, including its small sample size and cross-sectional design, the findings underscore the need for further research to better understand the role of different types of body fat in Alzheimer’s disease. Ultimately, the study reinforces the importance of preventive measures and early intervention to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease associated with obesity.
In conclusion, the study highlights the critical link between excess body fat and Alzheimer’s disease, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to managing obesity and maintaining brain health. By making healthy lifestyle choices, individuals can reduce their risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other related health conditions.
