(NaturalHealth365)  Belly fat has long been associated with health risks, but recent research has uncovered a startling new dimension: it’s not just a matter of physical health.  Surprisingly, excess belly fat can also harm your cognitive function.

This discovery, revealed in the reputable Journal of Nutrition, Health, and Aging, highlights a concerning link between abdominal fat and declining mental acuity.  So, let’s explore the implications of this finding, shedding light on why addressing belly fat is crucial for safeguarding your body and mind.

Study reveals the surprising impact of belly fat on your mind

A 10-year study has sent shockwaves through the health and medical communities, revealing a clear link between abdominal fat and cognitive decline.  Conducted as part of the National Institute for Longevity Sciences Longitudinal Study of Aging, this research sheds light on how belly fat can significantly impair cognitive function in older adults.

The study focused on individuals aged 60 and above, with 873 participants being closely examined over a decade.  Cognitive abilities were assessed every two years to track changes over time.

Researchers took a comprehensive approach, measuring various aspects of fat accumulation.  This included waist circumference, subcutaneous fat (fat beneath the skin), and visceral fat (fat surrounding internal organs), which was assessed using computed tomography scans.

How belly fat wreaks havoc on your body and mind

In the study, it was observed that men had lower subcutaneous fat area but higher visceral fat area compared to women.  Additionally, men showed a higher prevalence of certain health conditions, including dyslipidemia, stroke, and diabetes mellitus.

Over the course of the 10-year follow-up period, both men and women experienced cognitive impairment, with 6.3% of men and 6.5% of women exhibiting Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores below 24 points.  Further analysis revealed a significant association between abdominal adiposity and cognitive function decline.  Specifically, individuals with higher levels of abdominal adiposity demonstrated a more pronounced decline in MMSE scores over time.  This association held true for both men and women, with waist circumference and subcutaneous fat area exhibiting consistent trends across both sexes.  Notably, the visceral fat area showed significance only in men.

Let’s explore why there are differences in how men and women experience cognitive decline when they accumulate belly fat.  The researchers believe that hormonal variations between men and women may be the reason for these differences.  It’s possible that the way fat tissue interacts with hormone-producing organs, which release adipokines, plays a role in the varying rates of cognitive decline between men and women.

In simpler terms, the researchers suggest that having too much belly fat might lead to an increase in the production of inflammatory cytokines, which in turn could cause cognitive decline.  Cytokines are small proteins that act as messengers within the body’s immune system.  They regulate the activity and growth of immune and blood cells.  Cytokines help cells communicate during immune responses, directing them to areas of infection, injury, or inflammation.

Strategies to reduce belly fat for better cognition while aging

While you can’t alter your biological makeup, you have the power to take proactive steps to combat the accumulation and retention of belly fat.  Opt for complex carbohydrates over simple ones to minimize belly fat formation.  For instance, swap out pizza, bagels, and muffins for beans, vegetables and fruits.

In addition to dietary changes, incorporating cardiovascular and strength training exercises into your routine can help reduce stomach fat.  Regular activities such as bicycle riding, squats, lunges, core conditioning, walking, jogging, or even fun sports like pickleball can lead to noticeable reductions in belly fat over time.

If you often find yourself glued to screens for extended periods, consider setting a timer near each screen for hourly intervals.  When the timer goes off, take a break to stand up, stretch, and go for a walk.  This simple practice can increase blood flow, rev up your metabolism, and aid in the fight against the abdominal bulge.

Sources for this article include:

Sciencedirect.com
Lifespan.io