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New Stem Cells Cause Belly Fat Growth With Age
30 Jun
Summary
- Aging activates stem cells that rapidly create new abdominal fat cells.
- This process explains why visceral fat increases in middle age.
- Discovery may lead to future treatments for age-related weight gain.
New research published in Science in 2025 offers a compelling explanation for the common experience of increasing belly fat with age. Scientists at City of Hope have identified a novel type of stem cell that becomes active as individuals age, contributing to the rapid generation of new fat cells specifically in the abdominal region.
This discovery challenges previous assumptions that aging merely causes existing fat cells to enlarge. The study indicates that these newly identified stem cells are responsible for producing entirely new fat cells within visceral fat, the deep abdominal fat surrounding vital organs. Evidence suggests this mechanism is more active in older individuals and may occur in humans.
Visceral fat is a significant health concern, as it is linked to increased risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Understanding its increase with age is crucial for developing targeted health interventions.
While more research is needed, these newly discovered stem cells could become targets for future pharmaceutical interventions aimed at mitigating age-related abdominal fat accumulation. Currently, established strategies like strength training, cardio, adequate protein intake, quality sleep, and a healthy diet remain the most effective methods for managing visceral fat.
