The study reveals the startling benefit of abdominal fat growth

When it comes to brain health, Leaner may not be better.

In a new study published in the newspaper LetteringResearchers from Toho University in Japan found that visceral fat, deep fat that ends around your internal organs, plays a critical role in maintaining brain health.

But it’s a good line: having a little fat in your abdomen has brain benefits, but many can be dangerous to your health for other reasons and even increase your risk of death.

The team focused on the relationship between visceral fat and BDNF (brain -derived neurotrophic factor), a vital protein for memory, learning and mood regulation.

BDNF encourages growth, survival and bonding of brain cells.

Low BDNF levels have been related to conditions such as depression and dementia, while the high levels of BDNF are directly related to the highest brain function. As we age, BDNF levels fall, leading to memory loss and compromised cognitive functioning.

The study found that CX3Cl1, a protein produced by visceral fat, actively contributes to the maintenance of healthy BDNF levels.

Researchers traced male mice of different ages, approximately equal to young adults, middle -aged and elderly people.

In younger mice, their fat in the abdomen produced large amounts of visceral protein of fat, keeping their recognition high. Quality production continued in the middle -aged contingent, but fell with approximately one -third in the elderly population.

This decline reflects the steep cognitive changes that people experience later in life.

To prove the relationship between the fat protein and BDNF, scientists artificially reduced the protein to the young mice and found the decrease in the effects of aging. In contrast, when they gave older mice an additional dose of protein, their BDNF levels were reset.

While abdominal fat seems to be useful for the brain, the key is not to have much, which can contribute to other problems such as heart issues.

Previous research has shown that maintaining extra fat around your lumbar increases your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and sleep apnea.

Other research has linked excess abdominal fat to an increased risk of abdominal cancers, gall bladder, kidneys, liver and breast.

A summary of 2020 and 72 studies found that people with an apple-shaped body that means a wider average and less defined waist-had a significantly higher risk of death from all causes than those with pear-shaped bodies.

While the negative consequences of excess visceral fat are well established, this latest research suggests that healthy levels of visceral fat are essential for the production of enzymes, proteins and molecules that support brain health.

And, although the brain inevitably changes and decreases with age, experts agree that prioritizing a diet rich in nutrients, regular physical activity, social ties, stress management, adequate sleep and cognitive commitment can help protect and promote brain health.