Arm and Belly Fat Linked to Higher Risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, Study Finds
Arm and belly fat are more than just cosmetic concerns; they may significantly increase the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, according to a recent study. This research underscores the importance of understanding the relationship between body composition and brain health.
The study, which followed 412,961 individuals aged 40 to 70 over approximately nine years, found that 8,224 participants developed neurodegenerative diseases during this period, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other forms of dementia. The findings suggest a strong link between the distribution of fat in the body and the risk of these diseases.
Key findings include:
- Participants with excess arm fat had an 18% higher risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases compared to those with lower levels of arm fat.
- Individuals with high levels of belly fat were 13% more likely to develop these conditions, with men showing a slightly higher risk than women.
- Conversely, strong muscle strength was associated with a more than 25% reduction in the risk of these diseases.
While previous studies have shown that greater lean muscle mass can lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, this study, published in Neurology, the journal of the American Academy of Neurology, suggests that muscle quality might play a more crucial role than muscle quantity.
Dr. Huan Song, a co-author of the study and professor at Sichuan University in China, noted that targeted efforts to reduce trunk and arm fat while enhancing muscle strength could be more effective in preventing these diseases than general weight management strategies.
Why Does Excess Fat Increase Neurodegenerative Disease Risk?
Excess belly fat, specifically visceral fat that surrounds internal organs, is linked to increased levels of tau and amyloid proteins in the brain—markers for Alzheimer’s disease. This type of fat is sometimes called “hidden fat” because it isn’t visible externally. A 2023 study published in Aging & Disease found that obesity accelerates brain aging, potentially adding up to a decade of age and increasing the risk of Alzheimer’s. Metabolic changes from excess fat can also damage the central nervous system, leading to neuronal cell death, a known contributor to neurodegenerative diseases.
Additional Insights
The researchers also explored how cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease and stroke, are linked to the development of neurodegenerative diseases. They found that 35% of participants with excess belly fat and 22% of those with excess arm fat developed cardiovascular diseases during the study period, which are known risk factors for neurodegenerative conditions. Early management of cardiovascular diseases in individuals with excess fat may help reduce the risk of brain degeneration.
The Global Impact
With around 30 million people worldwide affected by degenerative brain diseases, understanding and mitigating risk factors like arm and belly fat is crucial for public health. This study highlights the need for targeted interventions to reduce these specific types of fat and improve muscle strength as a strategy to combat neurodegenerative diseases. For the latest health news follow us at WS Coverage.
