Mixed
Higher volumes of pericardial fat and visceral abdominal fat (VAT) are associated with a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD), whereas intrathoracic fat is not significantly associated with CVD.
Focus on reducing visceral abdominal fat and pericardial fat, not just total body weight. These specific fat deposits are strongly linked to cardiovascular disease, independent of your BMI. Strategies to reduce visceral fat include regular aerobic exercise, strength training, and a diet low in refined sugars and trans fats. Since pericardial fat surrounds the heart, reducing overall adiposity and managing metabolic health are key to lowering this specific risk.
The analysis of 1267 participants... demonstrated that pericardial fat... and VAT... but not intrathoracic fat... were significantly associated with prevalent CVD in age–sex-adjusted models and after adjustment for body mass index and waist circumference.
Why this rating
Large community-based cohort (Framingham) with rigorous CT-based volumetric measurements, though cross-sectional design limits causal inference.
Source
Association of pericardial fat, intrathoracic fat, and visceral abdominal fat with cardiovascular disease burden: the Framingham Heart Study
Amir A. Mahabadi et al. · European Heart Journal · 2008
DOI 10.1093/eurheartj/ehn573
Related findings · Mixed
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