The condition known as “skinny fat,” often used to describe individuals who appear thin yet lack fitness, is emerging as a significant health risk. Research indicates that fat stored deep within the body, particularly around organs and in the liver, can lead to arterial thickening and blockages, increasing the risk of heart disease, even among those with a normal body mass index (BMI).
A recent study published in Communications Medicine examined magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound data from over 33,000 adults across Canada and the United Kingdom. The research highlights a correlation between visceral and liver fat and the thickening of artery walls, as well as plaque accumulation, which are early indicators of cardiovascular issues.
According to co-lead author Russell de Souza, the results serve as an important alert for both healthcare professionals and the general public. “Even after adjusting for traditional cardiovascular risk factors such as cholesterol and blood pressure, visceral and liver fat still contribute to artery damage,” he stated in a press release.
Understanding the Impact of Hidden Fat on Arterial Health
The carotid arteries, located on either side of the neck, are responsible for supplying blood to the brain. When these arteries become thickened or obstructed due to fatty deposits, a condition referred to as carotid atherosclerosis can develop, which heightens the risk for strokes and heart attacks. While previous studies established a strong link between visceral fat and early arterial thickening, the direct effects on the carotid arteries needed further investigation.
Researchers from McMaster University aimed to clarify this relationship. They combined MRI and ultrasound data from 33,307 adults, aged 35 to 69, including nearly 7,000 Canadians and 26,000 participants from the U.K. Each participant underwent medical imaging to evaluate their levels of visceral and hepatic fat. The Canadian group utilized MRI scans to measure carotid wall volume, while ultrasound imaging assessed carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) in the U.K. cohort, offering insight into early-stage atherosclerosis.
The analysis revealed that with each standard deviation increase in visceral fat, the thickness of artery walls increased significantly—by approximately six millimeters in Canadians and 0.016 millimeters in U.K. participants—even when accounting for BMI, waist circumference, and blood pressure. Liver fat showed a weaker but still notable association, suggesting it may have a secondary role in vascular damage.
Reassessing Health Metrics Beyond BMI
The findings emphasize a crucial message for healthcare providers: BMI and waist size may not fully capture an individual”s health status. For the public, maintaining heart health requires vigilance regarding hidden risks, which involves being active, consuming a balanced diet, and having regular medical check-ups. “You can”t always tell by looking at someone whether they have visceral or liver fat,” noted co-author Sonia Anand. “This type of fat is metabolically active and poses risks, including inflammation and arterial damage, even in individuals who do not appear overweight.”
Previous research has indicated that engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity for approximately 150 minutes a week can lead to a reduction in liver fat over a span of six to twelve months. Therefore, incorporating activities such as walking, jogging, or other forms of aerobic exercise, combined with strength training and a diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, can mitigate the accumulation of harmful fats.
This article serves informational purposes and is not intended as medical advice.
