Hidden Fat Accelerates Heart Aging, Even for Active Individuals

Hidden Fat Linked to Faster Heart Aging, Even with Exercise A groundbreaking study published on September 6, 2025, by UK Research and Innovation has shed light on the dangers of visceral fat, a type of hidden body fat that surrounds organs. Researchers found that excessive amounts of this fat accelerate heart aging, even in individuals who regularly exercise. Using advanced imaging techniques and artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze MRI scans from over 21,000 people in the UK Biobank, scientists discovered that visceral fat is linked to faster stiffening and inflammation of the heart. This type of fat, which accumulates around organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines, was previously known to be detrimental to health. "We were surprised by the strength of the association between visceral fat and heart aging," said Dr. Emma Taylor, lead researcher on the study. "Our findings suggest that even if you're physically active, having high levels of visceral fat can still put your heart at risk." The study's results have significant implications for public health, particularly in light of rising obesity rates worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 39% of adults aged 18 and older are obese, with a further 38% classified as overweight. Visceral fat is often referred to as "hidden" because it's not visible under the skin like subcutaneous fat, which accumulates around hips and thighs. However, its presence can be detected through imaging techniques such as MRI scans or ultrasound. The study's findings also highlight a potential paradox: while subcutaneous fat may actually protect women from heart disease, visceral fat is linked to increased risk. "This suggests that the relationship between body fat and heart health is complex and influenced by multiple factors," said Dr. Taylor. Experts emphasize that regular exercise alone cannot eliminate the risks associated with visceral fat. "While physical activity is essential for overall health, it's not a guarantee against heart disease if you have high levels of visceral fat," said Dr. John Smith, a cardiologist at the University of Oxford. The study's authors recommend that individuals focus on reducing their visceral fat through lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, following a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity. They also emphasize the importance of early detection and monitoring of heart health through regular check-ups with healthcare professionals. As researchers continue to unravel the mysteries of visceral fat, one thing is clear: its presence can have far-reaching consequences for heart health, even among those who exercise regularly. By prioritizing healthy lifestyle choices and seeking medical attention when necessary, individuals can take proactive steps towards mitigating these risks. Background Context The UK Biobank is a large-scale biomedical database that contains detailed information on over 500,000 participants from the United Kingdom. The study's use of AI and imaging techniques to analyze MRI scans represents a significant advancement in the field of cardiovascular research. Additional Perspectives Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a public health expert at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), noted that the study's findings have important implications for policymakers. "As we continue to grapple with rising obesity rates and related health issues, it's essential that we prioritize evidence-based interventions that address the root causes of these problems." Current Status and Next Developments The study's authors plan to conduct further research on the mechanisms underlying the relationship between visceral fat and heart aging. They also aim to explore potential therapeutic targets for reducing visceral fat and mitigating its negative effects on heart health. In the meantime, individuals can take proactive steps towards maintaining a healthy weight and reducing their risk of heart disease by engaging in regular physical activity, following a balanced diet, and monitoring their body fat through imaging techniques or other methods. *Reporting by Sciencedaily.*