D-cide to become healthier and younger
From 1999 to 2023, the percentage of U.S. adults contending with abdominal obesity expanded from 48% to 61%. And almost two-thirds of Americans have insufficient vitamin D levels, according to a 2022 analysis of the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
That, says a new study of 5,500 adults ages 50 and older, is a dangerous duo. Visceral belly fat reduces the availability of circulating vitamin D. That deficiency then downgrades immune function, worsens inflammation and accelerates the development of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. And that increases your risk of dying over the next six years by 123%, compared to folks with no belly fat and no vitamin D deficiency.
Your smart move is to shed belly fat by adopting a plant-based diet free from highly processed foods, added sugar and red and red processed meats. Make sure to get 300 minutes of high-intensity interval training and resistance exercise weekly. Also, get a blood test to check your vitamin D level -- and increase your intake of fatty fish, like salmon and sardines, mushrooms, and cereals fortified with vitamin D. Take D3 supplements if recommended.
The rewards of increased levels of vitamin D are more muscle mass in your arms and legs, according to a study that looked at data on 11,000 U.S. adults. You also see better immune system function and stronger bones. And shedding visceral fat rolls back your ActualAge (determine yours at 4YOUgevity.com), and helps prevent or reverse Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cognitive problems and other life-altering diseases.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at drmikerealage@gmail.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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