The Hidden Dangers of Visceral and Liver Fat

In the ongoing quest to better understand the risks of obesity and heart health, a recent study sheds light on the importance of internal fats that are not visible to the naked eye. This study, published in the journal “Communications Medicine” on October 17, 2025, calls for a reevaluation of how we assess heart and obesity risks.

Visceral and Liver Fat: Hidden Threats

Visceral fat, which surrounds internal organs, and liver fat, stored in the liver, have long been associated with serious health issues such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. However, their direct impact on arterial health has not been clear until now.

Modern MRI techniques, along with data from over 33,000 adults in Canada and the UK, have revealed that high levels of visceral and liver fat are strongly linked to the narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck, which carry blood to the brain. This narrowing increases the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

The Study Reveals a New Reality

According to Dr. Russell de Souza, a co-author of the study and an associate professor in the Department of Health Research Methods at McMaster University, the study showed that visceral and liver fat contribute to arterial damage even after accounting for traditional factors like cholesterol and blood pressure.

These findings should serve as a wake-up call for both doctors and the public, emphasizing the need to focus on hidden fats rather than just visible weight. The research was led by Mary Beiger, a professor in the Department of Medicine at McMaster University.

Rethinking Obesity Assessment

The results suggest that doctors need to look beyond body mass index or waist measurements when assessing heart risks. Imaging tests that reveal fat stored around internal organs may provide a more accurate picture of cardiovascular health.

For middle-aged individuals, the study reminds us that a normal weight does not necessarily guarantee good heart health. Hidden fats can quietly increase the risk of serious diseases without any obvious physical signs.

As explained by Sonia Anand, the corresponding author of the study and a vascular medicine specialist at Hamilton Health Hospital, these fats are metabolically active and dangerous, associated with inflammation and arterial damage even in people who do not appear overweight.

Conclusion

The study calls for a fundamental change in how we evaluate obesity and heart disease risks. Instead of relying solely on visible weight indicators like body mass index, we should pay more attention to hidden fats that can be more dangerous. By using advanced imaging techniques, doctors can gain a clearer and more accurate picture of cardiovascular health, helping to prevent serious diseases and improve overall health.