Excess visceral fat, the hidden fat surrounding organs, is now linked to faster ageing of the heart, a recent UK study reveals. Ageing remains the primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease, yet some people experience accelerated heart ageing for reasons that have remained unclear.
Scientists leading this research suggest visceral fat may play a critical role in driving this premature cardiac ageing.
Understanding Visceral Fat
Visceral adipose tissue is stored deep in the abdomen around organs like the stomach, liver, and intestines.
Unlike subcutaneous fat, it can’t be seen externally, meaning even people with normal weight may carry harmful visceral fat. This type of fat is strongly associated with inflammation, metabolic disturbances, and now, accelerated heart ageing.
The Study: UK Biobank and AI Imaging
The research, conducted by the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences in London and published in the European Heart Journal, analyzed data from 21,241 participants in the UK Biobank. Whole-body imaging mapped fat distribution while AI algorithms evaluated heart and blood vessel health.
Each participant was assigned a “heart age” based on tissue stiffness, inflammation, and other biomarkers.
Visceral Fat and Accelerated Heart Ageing
Researchers discovered that higher visceral fat levels strongly predicted faster heart ageing. Blood tests indicated increased inflammation in individuals with more visceral adipose tissue, highlighting a potential mechanism for premature cardiac ageing.
Notably, BMI was found to be an unreliable predictor of heart age, underscoring that fat location matters more than total body weight.
Sex Differences in Fat Distribution
The study revealed significant sex-specific effects. Men with “apple-shaped” fat accumulation, predominantly around the abdomen, showed more rapid heart ageing. Conversely, women with “pear-shaped” fat distribution—around hips and thighs—exhibited slower heart ageing.
The researchers also found that higher oestrogen levels in premenopausal women were linked to protective effects against cardiac ageing.
Implications for Cardiovascular Health
Professor Declan O’Regan, lead researcher and British Heart Foundation Professor of Cardiovascular AI, emphasized the importance of fat distribution in predicting heart health. He explained that while physical activity remains crucial, hidden visceral fat can still harm even fit individuals.
The findings suggest targeted strategies to reduce visceral fat could extend healthy lifespan.
Future Directions: Therapeutic Potential
The study highlights opportunities to explore drug therapies like GLP-1 inhibitors, including Ozempic, to combat the harmful effects of visceral fat beyond weight reduction and diabetes management. Understanding hormonal influences, particularly oestrogen, may inform future treatments to slow heart ageing, especially in women.
Recommendations for the Public
Experts, including Professor Bryan Williams of the British Heart Foundation, stress the importance of lifestyle interventions to reduce visceral fat. Key strategies include:
- Maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet rich in whole foods.
- Regular physical activity to reduce fat accumulation and inflammation.
- Monitoring fat distribution rather than relying solely on BMI.
These measures can help mitigate cardiovascular risk while potentially slowing age-related changes in the heart.
This landmark UK study highlights that not all fat is created equal. Hidden visceral fat accelerates heart ageing, while fat around the hips and thighs in women may offer protection. By emphasizing fat distribution and inflammation markers over weight alone, healthcare providers can better find at-risk individuals and tailor interventions.
Future therapies targeting visceral fat and hormonal pathways could revolutionize approaches to extending heart health and longevity.
