Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2026
05:57
Fat Preference: A Novel Model of Eating Behavior in Rats
Published on: June 27, 2014
Visceral fat is associated with lower executive functioning in adolescents
D H Schwartz1, G Leonard, M Perron
11] Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada [2] Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
International Journal of Obesity (2005)
|June 26, 2013
Summary
Visceral fat (VF) in adolescents is linked to poorer executive function, independent of total body fat. This association is stronger in females, suggesting VF, not overall obesity, impacts cognitive performance.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Obesity is a significant risk factor for cardiometabolic diseases and is linked to reduced cognitive performance, particularly executive function.
- Visceral fat (VF), a specific type of abdominal fat, poses a higher cardiovascular risk, but its impact on cognition is not well understood.
- The relationship between obesity and cognitive function in adolescents, specifically concerning visceral fat, requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cross-sectional association between visceral fat (VF) and cognitive performance in healthy adolescents.
- To determine if visceral fat, rather than total body fat, is specifically related to executive function and memory in this age group.
- To explore potential sex differences in the relationship between visceral fat and cognitive outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A community-based sample of 983 adolescents (aged 12-18 years) was recruited.
- Visceral fat (VF) was quantified using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- Cognitive performance was assessed using a comprehensive battery of tests measuring executive function and memory, with total body fat measured by bioimpedance.
Main Results:
- Higher volumes of visceral fat (VF) were significantly associated with lower performance on six executive function measures (P=0.0001–0.02).
- The association between VF and executive function was moderated by sex, being more pronounced in females than males (sex-by-VF interaction: P=0.001–0.04).
- These findings remained significant and independent of total body fat, age, puberty stage, and household income.
Conclusions:
- The detrimental effects of obesity on executive function in adolescents may be specifically attributable to visceral fat accumulation.
- Female adolescents appear more susceptible than males to the negative cognitive impacts of visceral fat.
- These results highlight the importance of targeting visceral fat for cognitive health in adolescent populations.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:29Cholesterol: Significance and Regulation
Although not a source of energy, cholesterol plays a significant role as a foundational structure for bile salts, steroid hormones, and vitamin D, as well as being a crucial component of plasma membranes. Approximately 15% of blood cholesterol is derived from our diet, with the remainder synthesized from acetyl CoA by the liver and intestines. Cholesterol is eliminated from the body through its conversion into bile salts, which are eventually discarded in the feces.
Considering cholesterol and...
Considering cholesterol and...
01:02Hypodermis
The hypodermis (the subcutaneous layer or superficial fascia) is present directly below the dermis. It connects the skin to the underlying fascia (fibrous tissue) of the bones and muscles. It is not strictly a part of the skin, although the border between the hypodermis and dermis can be difficult to distinguish. The hypodermis consists of well-vascularized, loose, areolar connective tissue and adipose tissue, which functions as a mode of fat storage and provides insulation and cushioning for...
01:24Obesity
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a numerical value derived from a person's weight and height, used to categorize individuals into weight ranges. It is calculated using the formula: weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. Obesity is a health condition characterized by excessive accumulation of adipose tissue that poses health risks, often diagnosed with a BMI ≥ 30. This excess fat storage occurs when surplus dietary calories are converted into triglycerides and stored in adipocytes...
01:06Fats as Energy Storage Molecules
Triglycerides are a form of long-term energy storage molecules. They are made of glycerol and three fatty acids. To obtain energy from fat, triglycerides must first be broken down by hydrolysis into their two principal components, fatty acids and glycerol. This process, called lipolysis, takes place in the cytoplasm. The resulting fatty acids are oxidized by β-oxidation into acetyl-CoA, which is used by the Krebs cycle. The glycerol that is released from triglycerides after lipolysis directly...
01:06Fats as Energy Storage Molecules
Triglycerides are a form of long-term energy storage molecules. They are made of glycerol and three fatty acids. To obtain energy from fat, triglycerides must first be broken down by hydrolysis into their two principal components, fatty acids and glycerol. This process, called lipolysis, takes place in the cytoplasm. The resulting fatty acids are oxidized by β-oxidation into acetyl-CoA, which is used by the Krebs cycle. The glycerol that is released from triglycerides after lipolysis directly...
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.