For Men Only: Belly Fat May Cause "Disease" Affecting the Brain

A recent study found that belly fat may lead to brain aging and cognitive decline in middle-aged men. According to a study published in the British newspaper "Daily Mail," individuals with excess abdominal weight and a family history of Alzheimer's disease exhibited lower brain functions. Researchers believe that increased fat deposits in the pancreas and liver may heighten the risk of dementia. The researchers studied 204 healthy middle-aged individuals with a family history of Alzheimer's disease and found that men with high levels of belly fat had lower cognitive function. Previous studies have shown that men with a higher body mass index are more prone to dementia. The excess fat that accumulates around the trunk is known as visceral fat, which contributes to an undesirable body shape.