Study: Belly Fat Linked to Heart Damage, Even in Normal-Weight Men

New research warns that men with a "beer belly" face a higher risk of permanent heart damage. This risk exists even if their overall body weight is considered normal. The study challenges traditional medical views. Doctors often use Body Mass Index (BMI) to assess heart disease risk. BMI only measures weight relative to height. It does not show where fat is stored on the body. The findings suggest that fat concentrated around the abdomen is particularly harmful. This type of fat, called visceral fat, surrounds internal organs. It can lead to inflammation and insulin resistance, which strain the heart muscle. Researchers concluded that waist measurement may be a more important heart health indicator than total weight for some individuals. The study emphasizes that where the body stores fat is a critical factor for cardiovascular risk.