This allowed the team to compare brain health outcomes with patterns of body fat distribution. Of the body fat profiles the team identified, “pancreatic-predominant” and “skinny fat” profiles were most associated with extensive gray matter atrophy, accelerated brain aging, cognitive decline and increased risk of neurological disease. “Additionally, this group tends to have a higher BMI and overall body fat load.”Interestingly, however, these individuals didn’t have significantly pronounced liver fat compared to those with other profiles. High pancreatic fat accompanied by relatively low liver fat emerges as a distinct, clinically overlooked phenotype, Dr. Liu noted. Understanding the risks associated with specific fat distribution patterns can help health care providers guide more personalized treatment and help patients keep their brains healthier.