Carrying excess weight around your middle may increase risk of dementia and Parkinson's, researchers find - but having more muscle mass could help protect against the diseases

Excess stomach and arm fat can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, according to a new study.
The study involved over 400,000 people in the UK who were followed for nine years and found that those with high levels of belly and arm fat were more likely to develop these diseases.
In contrast, individuals with higher muscle strength were less likely to develop Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
The link between excess fat and these diseases may be related to heart disease and stroke, highlighting the importance of managing cardiovascular health.
Targeted interventions to reduce belly and arm fat while promoting muscle development may help lower the risk of developing these neurodegenerative diseases.

Carrying excess weight around your middle may increase risk of dementia and Parkinson’s, researchers find – but having more muscle mass could help protect against the diseases