The article discusses the dangers of visceral abdominal fat, described as a health risk by Jens Aberle of the German Obesity Society. A study by German institutions highlights a diet rich in unsaturated fatty acids, which significantly reduced visceral fat among older participants. The NutriAct group showed improved cardiovascular risk markers, while the control group didn’t experience similar benefits. Findings emphasize tailored dietary recommendations, especially for older adults, to combat abdominal fat and promote heart health without drastic weight loss.
The following content is published by Focus online*
Visceral fat, situated beneath the muscle layer and surrounding internal organs, is referred to by Jens Aberle, President of the German Obesity Society (DAG), as a ‘ticking time bomb for health.’ This type of fat operates much like an organ itself, producing hormones that can trigger inflammation and negatively affect blood lipids. The risk of serious cardiovascular issues, such as heart attacks and strokes, escalates with the accumulation of abdominal fat, especially in older adults.
According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), around one-third of the population in Germany suffers from excessive abdominal fat.
Effective Diet for Reducing Belly Fat
Researchers from the German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbrücke (DIfE) and Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin conducted a study to determine how nutritional choices can aid in reducing visceral abdominal fat as part of the ‘NutriAct’ nutrition study. This research is part of the federally supported project ‘NutriAct – Nutritional Intervention for Healthy Ageing,’ which aims to establish scientifically backed dietary recommendations suitable for aging individuals.
Over one year, 502 individuals aged 50 to 80 were analyzed. Participants were randomly divided into two groups. One group adopted the NutriAct dietary model, rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, along with plant-based proteins and fiber. This group consumed specially prepared meals and participated in eleven group sessions focusing on nutrition and lifestyle education.
The other group adhered to the guidelines provided by the German Nutrition Society, receiving some complimentary food items and attending three nutritional consultations.
Combatting Harmful Belly Fat with Nutrition
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was utilized to assess the visceral abdominal fat of 300 participants at both the beginning and the conclusion of the study.
The NutriAct group experienced a notable decrease in visceral abdominal fat, while those following the DGE recommendations showed no changes. This reduction primarily stemmed from an increased intake of unsaturated fatty acids, which also led to improved levels of LDL cholesterol, a known risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, as noted by Knut Mai, a scientist at DIfE.
Foods abundant in polyunsaturated fatty acids:
Changes in the consumption of monounsaturated fatty acids, proteins, and fiber did not result in significant reductions in abdominal fat.
Weight Loss vs. Fat Loss
Both groups observed a slight reduction in weight; however, this weight loss did not correlate with the decrease in visceral abdominal fat among the NutriAct group. This underscores the significance of the specific nutrient composition in one’s diet.
These findings may lead to enhanced understanding of the specific nutrients and dietary patterns that contribute to diminishing abdominal fat and lowering cardiovascular risk in the future.
Positive Implications for the Elderly
Lead researcher Nina Meyer indicated that the study’s findings are particularly important for older adults facing a higher risk of cardiovascular conditions. A diet abundant in polyunsaturated fatty acids may help prevent these diseases without necessitating substantial weight reduction.
For seniors, aggressive weight loss can be harmful and may lead to muscle deterioration. It is crucial for older individuals to engage in regular physical activity and to moderately restrict caloric intake in line with medical guidelines.
This research could enhance dietary guidelines for individuals over 50. Future studies will explore the underlying mechanisms of this dietary pattern further and its effects on various cardiovascular systems.
This article first appeared on our colleagues at focus.de