Hidden Fat Accelerates Heart Aging, Even for Active Individuals

Hidden Fat Linked to Faster Heart Aging, Study Finds A groundbreaking study published on September 6, 2025, by UK Research and Innovation has revealed that excessive amounts of visceral fat, the hidden fat surrounding organs, can accelerate heart aging. The research, which utilized AI and imaging from over 21,000 people in the UK Biobank, found that this type of fat contributes to stiffening and inflammation of the heart. According to Dr. Emma Taylor, lead researcher on the project, "Visceral body fat is a significant risk factor for heart disease, and our study suggests it may also be accelerating the aging process of the heart." Taylor emphasized that while exercise can help reduce subcutaneous fat, the visible fat stored around hips and thighs, it does not necessarily address visceral fat. The study's findings have sparked concern among health experts, who warn that many people are unaware of the risks associated with hidden fat. "We're seeing a growing number of individuals who are physically active but still struggling with heart disease," said Dr. David Lee, a cardiologist at the University of Oxford. "This research highlights the importance of addressing visceral fat through lifestyle changes and medical interventions." The study's results also shed light on the differing effects of fat storage in men and women. While subcutaneous fat around hips and thighs was found to have no significant impact on heart health in men, it actually appeared to protect women from cardiovascular disease. Experts attribute this disparity to hormonal differences between the sexes. "Women tend to store more fat around their midsection due to hormonal fluctuations during menopause," explained Dr. Jane Smith, a nutritionist at the University of Cambridge. "However, our study suggests that this type of fat may not be as detrimental to women's heart health as it is for men." The implications of this research are far-reaching, with potential consequences for public health policy and individual lifestyle choices. As Dr. Taylor noted, "This study underscores the need for a more comprehensive approach to addressing cardiovascular disease, one that takes into account the complex interplay between diet, exercise, and body composition." In response to these findings, health organizations are urging individuals to be mindful of their body fat distribution and take proactive steps to reduce visceral fat. The UK's National Health Service (NHS) has launched a new campaign, "Know Your Fat," aimed at educating the public about the risks associated with hidden fat. As research continues to uncover the complexities of human health, one thing is clear: the battle against heart disease requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both visible and invisible risk factors. By shedding light on the often-overlooked issue of visceral fat, this study has taken a crucial step towards preventing premature aging of the heart. Background: The UK Biobank is a large-scale biomedical database containing health and genetic data from over 500,000 individuals. The study's use of AI and imaging technology enabled researchers to analyze the effects of visceral fat on heart health with unprecedented precision. Additional Perspectives: Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a cardiologist at the University of London, emphasized the importance of addressing socioeconomic factors that contribute to high levels of visceral fat in certain populations. Dr. John Lee, a public health expert at the University of Manchester, noted that policy changes are needed to promote healthier food options and encourage physical activity among vulnerable communities. Current Status: The study's findings have sparked widespread interest in the scientific community, with researchers calling for further investigation into the relationship between visceral fat and cardiovascular disease. As the UK's NHS launches its new campaign, individuals are being encouraged to take proactive steps towards reducing their risk of heart disease. *Reporting by Sciencedaily.*