The study reported that visceral fat, which accumulates inside the abdominal cavity, is associated with decreased levels of the hormone estrogen, reduced insulin sensitivity, and increased chronic inflammation. These factors negatively affect memory and executive functions in the brain, according to the scientific site PsyPost.
Researchers confirmed that this type of fat is more dangerous than others, as it increases the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and even Alzheimer’s disease.
The central obesity of these women was measured by the waist-to-hip ratio, and participants were divided into three groups: the first received oral estrogen, the second used transdermal estradiol, and the third received a placebo.
No significant difference was recorded between hormone therapy and placebo in maintaining cognitive abilities. Researchers stressed the importance of focusing on early prevention of cognitive decline after menopause, even in women with low risk and vascular health, emphasizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle to reduce the accumulation of visceral fat.
