Critical warning from scientists: Hidden fat is wearing out the heart
Researchers analyzed data from more than 21,000 people. They found signs of accelerated cardiovascular aging in people with more visceral fat. Blood tests also showed that this type of fat causes widespread inflammation in the body. This condition has long been linked to premature aging and disease.
Research published in the European Heart Journal suggests that body shape may be a more significant determinant of heart health than weight. Men with an "apple-shaped" body, where fat accumulates around the abdomen, experience a much faster cardiac aging process.
On the other hand, women with "pear-shaped" shapes who accumulate fat around the hips and thighs—especially those genetically predisposed to this shape—have healthier, younger hearts. It's thought that lower body fat may protect against heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
Another key finding in the study was that higher estrogen levels in premenopausal women slowed heart aging, suggesting that estrogen may play a protective role in the heart.
Scientists analyzed MRI images from the UK Biobank . Full-body scans mapped the amount and location of fat, while detailed scans of the cardiovascular system were analyzed using artificial intelligence. Participants' heart ages were calculated and compared to their actual ages.
"We already knew about the distinction between apple and pear body types, but its impact on health wasn't fully clear. Our research shows that 'bad' fat hidden around internal organs accelerates heart ageing. Conversely, we've identified that fat around the hips and thighs may be protective against ageing," said Prof. Declan O'Regan.
Prof. O'Regan also emphasized that body mass index (BMI) alone is insufficient to predict heart age:
"Where the fat accumulates on the body is more important than the total weight. Being active is beneficial, but hidden fat can be harmful even in fit people."
The research team also plans to examine whether newer weight loss medications like Ozempic could reduce the aging effects of this hidden fat on the heart. These drugs, which mimic the effects of the hormone GLP-1, have previously been shown to reduce visceral fat. The potential for these drugs to keep the heart younger for longer is being investigated.
Prof. Bryan Williams issued the following warning:
"We already know that excess visceral fat, which accumulates around the heart and liver, leads to high blood pressure and cholesterol. Even more concerning is that this fat accelerates the aging of the heart and blood vessels. The fact that fat distribution in women is linked to estrogen suggests that this hormone may play a role in treatments that slow heart aging."
Experts remind that a healthy diet and regular exercise are effective in reducing visceral fat.
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