A study presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America found that visceral fat in midlife may increase inflammation in the brain, which increases the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

The study analyzed data from 54 participants aged 40 to 60 years with an average body mass index (BMI) of 32. Subcutaneous and visceral fat volume was analyzed using MRI, as well as cortical thickness and the presence of amyloid plaques and tau. -proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease using MRI and PET techniques.

Scientists have found that a higher ratio of visceral to subcutaneous fat is associated with increased accumulation of amyloid proteins in the brain, especially in men. This group also had increased levels of inflammation in the brain. These changes in the brain are detected around age 50, 15 years before early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease appear.

The study’s findings highlight the importance of obesity prevention and an active lifestyle, especially in young people, to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.