A UK study shows that healthy eating and exercise in midlife cut dangerous belly fat, lowering risks of diabetes and heart disease.

A UK study of over 7,200 middle-aged adults found that combining a healthy diet with regular exercise reduces visceral fat—fat around internal organs—lowering risks of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and fatty liver. Over seven years, those improving both habits gained 1.9 kg less total fat and 150 grams less visceral fat, a 16% reduction, even after adjusting for BMI. Researchers say small, consistent lifestyle changes in midlife can significantly improve long-term health by targeting harmful fat, not just overall weight.