Belly fat may actually boost your brain health: Surprising findings of a new study

Nobody would have thought belly fat and brain health could have any positive connection, but a new study might change that.

Belly fat has long earned a reputation as one of the most dangerous kinds of fat and has been linked to a host of chronic diseases. But this latest research published in GeroScience Journal reveals a surprising brighter side to visceral fat.

Japanese researchers from Toho University find that the visceral fat that wraps around your internal organs may actually play an important role in maintaining your brain health. But here's the catch. Belly fat is only good for your brain in moderation. In excess, it can still be dangerous for your health and cause diseases that raise risk of death.

Reason why belly fat is actually a brain tonic

The team of researchers discovered that CX3CL1, a protein produced by visceral fat, contributes to maintaining healthy levels of BDNF, a protein which is important for memory, learning and mood regulation. It also promotes the growth, survival and connection of brain cells.

Low BDNF levels are associated with conditions like depression and dementia, while high levels are directly related to optimal brain function.

With age, BDNF levels decrease, which could lead to memory loss and decreased cognitive functioning.

For the study, researchers experimented on male mice across different age groups - young adults, middle-aged and elderly.

The researchers found that the belly fat of younger mice produced larger quantities of visceral fat protein which kept their cognitive health in good shape. The production of the protein continued at the same rate in middle-aged mice, but reduced by a third in the senior population.

When scientists reduced the protein in younger mice, they found that the mice started showing signs of aging. On the other hand, when older mice were given extra dose of the protein, their BDNF levels were restored.

Dangers of too much belly fat

There is no dearth of studies demonstrating the negative effects of belly fat on overall health. It can increase your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and sleep apnea.

Excess belly fat is also linked to elevated risk of cancers of the womb, gallbladder, kidney, liver and breast.

The latest research however sheds light on the positive side of healthy visceral fat levels for the brain and proves that too little or too much belly fat, both are harmful.

For healthy aging, one must also consider factors like regular exercise, social connections, stress management and adequate sleep.