Association Between Visceral Adipose Tissue and Depression Risk With Both Observational and Genetic Evidence
Linxiao Gao1, Haoyu Fang2, Yanhe Liu2
1Division of Liver Surgery, Department of General Surgery West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
Brain and Behavior
|April 23, 2026
Summary
Visceral adipose tissue volume (VATV) is positively associated with depression. Managing visceral fat through physical activity may help prevent depression, as a causal link was confirmed.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic Health
- Psychiatry
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Previous research indicates a link between visceral obesity and depression.
- However, limited studies explore visceral adipose tissue volume (VATV) and depression, especially considering physical activity's role.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between VATV and depression.
- To examine the combined influence of physical activity on this relationship.
- To determine the causal relationship between VATV and depression.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data (2011-2018) from 7460 adults (20-59 years).
- VATV measurement via dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry or MRI.
- Multivariate logistic regression and Mendelian randomization analyses were employed.
Main Results:
- A significant positive association was observed between VATV and depression (OR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01-1.07).
- Low VATV combined with physical activity significantly reduced depression prevalence.
- Mendelian randomization confirmed a causal relationship between VATV and depression.
Conclusions:
- Visceral fat is positively associated with depression.
- Regular physical activity and low VATV are linked to reduced depression prevalence.
- The findings support managing visceral fat as a potential depression prevention strategy.
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