Chronic accumulation of abdominal fat during midlife could significantly accelerate brain ageing and cognitive decline, according to a new study published in the journal Nature Communications. Researchers found that people with lower levels of visceral fat — the fat stored deep around internal organs — showed slower brain shrinkage and better cognitive performance later in life.
The study analysed MRI scans of the brain and abdomen from 533 men and women in late midlife over a period of up to 16 years. Participants underwent repeated MRI measurements to track visceral fat levels, brain structure changes and cognitive performance over time.
Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health said the findings provide fresh evidence linking abdominal fat to long-term brain health.
Visceral Fat, Not Overall Weight, Was The Key Factor
The researchers found that persistent high levels of visceral fat were associated with faster brain atrophy, especially in the hippocampus — the part of the brain responsible for memory and learning. Increased enlargement of the brain ventricles, another marker of brain ageing, was also observed in participants with higher abdominal fat levels.
Interestingly, the study found no similar connection between brain ageing and subcutaneous fat — the fat stored just beneath the skin — or even body mass index (BMI). This suggests that where fat is stored in the body matters more than overall body weight.
Lead researcher Iris Shai said the findings highlight the importance of targeting abdominal fat and blood sugar control during midlife.
“The findings point to glucose control and reduction of visceral abdominal fat as measurable, modifiable, and achievable targets in midlife — with real potential to slow brain degeneration and reduce the risk of cognitive decline,” she said.
Blood Sugar Control Emerged As A Major Link
The study also found that the connection between visceral fat and brain ageing was strongly linked to glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.
Researchers observed that fasting glucose and HbA1c levels — indicators of long-term blood sugar control — were the strongest predictors of structural brain changes over time. Other markers such as blood lipids and inflammation did not show the same consistent association.
According to the researchers, chronic insulin resistance and poor glucose regulation may damage the brain by reducing blood flow, weakening the blood-brain barrier and accelerating degeneration in grey matter and memory-related regions of the brain.
Fat Loss Showed Long-Term Brain Benefits
One of the study’s most notable findings was that reductions in visceral fat during an 18-month dietary intervention were linked to better preservation of brain structures even five to 10 years later.
Researchers emphasised that the benefit was tied specifically to abdominal fat reduction, not overall weight loss alone.
The findings suggest that maintaining healthy metabolic health and reducing belly fat in midlife could play a crucial role in protecting the brain against age-related decline.