Citation: Cook RL, Donges CE, Parker HM, O'Dwyer NJ, Cheng HL, Steinbeck KS, Cox EP, Franklin JL, Garg M, Rooney KB, O'Connor HT. Relationship between obesity and cognitive function in young women: The Food Mood and Mind Study. Journal of Obesity 2017;2017:5923862. doi: 10.1155/2017/5923862

 

Abstract

Limited research addresses links between obesity and cognitive function in young adults. Objective. To investigate the relationship between obesity and cognitive function in young women. Methods. This cross-sectional study recruited healthy, young (18–35 y) women of normal (NW: BMI = 18.5–24.9 kg·m−2) or obese (OB: BMI ≥ 30.0 kg·m−2) weight. Participants completed a validated, computer-based cognitive testing battery evaluating impulsivity, attention, information processing, memory, and executive function. Questionnaires on depression and physical activity and a fasting blood sample for C-reactive protein and the Omega-3 Index were also collected. Cognition data are presented as z-scores (mean ± SD), and group comparisons were assessed via ANOVA. Potential confounding from questionnaire and blood variables were evaluated using ANCOVA. Results. 299 women (NW: n = 157; OB: n = 142) aged 25.8 ± 5.1 y were enrolled. Cognition scores were within normal range (±1 z-score), but OB had lower attention (NW: 0.31 ± 1.38; OB: −0.25 ± 1.39; ES: 0.41, CI: 0.17–0.64; ) and higher impulsivity (NW: 0.36 ± 1.14; OB: −0.07 ± 1.07; ES: 0.39, CI: 0.15–0.62; ). Confounder adjustment had minimal impact on results. Conclusion. The OB group had normal but significantly lower performance on attention and were more impulsive compared to NW participants. This may indicate early cognitive decline, but longitudinal research confirming these findings is warranted.


About The Authors

  Doctor  

Helen is an Accredited Practising Dietitian and Exercise Scientist by training, and currently holds ...

  Professor  

Kate Steinbeck is an endocrinologist and adolescent physician, and Professor and Medical Foundation ...