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Executive Functions in Predicting Weight Loss and Obesity Indicators: A Meta-Analysis
Zhongquan Du1, Jingjing Li1, Jiaai Huang1
1Graduate School, Wuhan Sports University, Wuhan, China.
Frontiers in Psychology
|February 15, 2021
Summary
Executive function (EF) interventions may not impact weight loss, but baseline inhibition and delay discounting predict future weight loss. Early-life inhibition also shows potential predictive value for weight management.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
Background:
- The relationship between obesity and executive function (EF) is complex and not fully understood.
- Clarifying this link has significant clinical implications for obesity treatment and prevention.
Approach:
- A multilevel meta-analysis synthesized data from 8 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 17 longitudinal studies.
- The analysis included 11,393 participants to investigate EF interventions, baseline EF, and early-life EF as predictors of weight loss.
Key Points:
- Executive function interventions did not demonstrate a significant effect on weight loss.
- Baseline inhibition and delay discounting were significant predictors of future weight loss in obesity interventions.
- Age moderated the relationship between working memory and weight loss, but not weight status or intervention type.
Conclusions:
- The association between EF and obesity is likely indirect, possibly mediated by higher-order factors like genetics.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the complex interplay between executive function and obesity.
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