Executive function differences as a function of parent-reported binge eating and weight: Results from the adolescent
Kaitlin N Rozzell-Voss1, Patrycja Klimek-Johnson2, Dawn M Eichen3
1University of Hawai'i at Mānoa Honolulu Hawaii USA.
Obesity Science & Practice
|January 24, 2024
Summary
Children with binge eating show lower executive function (EF), similar to those with obesity. These cognitive differences in children with binge eating may not solely stem from weight, highlighting the need for further research.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric neurocognition
- Disordered eating research
- Childhood obesity studies
Background:
- Binge eating is a common disordered eating behavior in children, linked to adverse health outcomes.
- Executive function (EF) deficits are associated with pediatric obesity and binge eating, though findings vary.
- Understanding the interplay between EF, binge eating, and weight status in children is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate executive function (EF) differences in children based on weight status and parent-reported binge eating.
- To explore potential neurocognitive similarities between childhood binge eating and overweight/obesity.
- To examine if EF alterations in binge eating are solely weight-dependent.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from 10,017 children (aged 9-10 years) from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study.
- Compared executive function (EF) levels across groups defined by weight status (normal weight, overweight/obesity) and presence/absence of parent-reported binge eating.
- Analyzed statistical differences in EF among these distinct pediatric groups.
Main Results:
- Children with binge eating (normal or overweight/obese) exhibited significantly lower EF compared to normal-weight children without binge eating.
- Children with overweight/obesity but no binge eating also showed significantly lower EF than normal-weight peers.
- While differences were small, results suggest potential shared neurocognitive profiles in children with binge eating and those with overweight/obesity.
Conclusions:
- Executive function (EF) alterations in children with binge eating may extend beyond weight-related factors, as differences were observed even in normal-weight children.
- Findings suggest a complex relationship between disordered eating, neurocognition, and weight status in pediatric populations.
- Further longitudinal research using multi-informant methods is essential to clarify the temporal links between childhood obesity, binge eating, and executive function.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Binge Eating Disorders
68
Binge eating disorder is a significant mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of excessive food consumption within a short period, accompanied by a perceived loss of control over eating behavior. Unlike occasional overeating, binge eating disorder is marked by distressing emotions such as guilt, shame, and anxiety following binge episodes. The disorder affects individuals across different ages and backgrounds, with profound implications for physical and psychological...
68
01:30Bulimia Nervosa
79
Bulimia nervosa is a complex and severe eating disorder characterized by a cyclical pattern of binge-and-purge eating pattern. It generally involves an episode of binge eating, followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, excessive exercise, laxative use, or fasting, to prevent weight gain. Despite often maintaining a normal weight, individuals with bulimia are intensely preoccupied with their body image and harbor an overwhelming fear of gaining weight. This can contribute to the...
79
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
68
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....
68
01:28Anorexia Nervosa
70
Anorexia nervosa is a complex and severe eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of weight gain, an unrelenting pursuit of thinness, and a distorted body image. It often leads to dangerously low body weight relative to an individual's age and height. This disorder is marked by significant physical and psychological consequences, making it one of the most life-threatening psychiatric illnesses.
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
70
02:45Self-Discrepancy Theory
18.3K
One influential perspective on what motivates people's behavior is detailed in Tory Higgin's self-discrepancy theory (Higgins, 1987). He proposed that people hold disagreeing internal representations of themselves that lead to different emotional states.
18.3K
01:30Regulation of Food Intake
232
Short-term regulation of food intake primarily involves neural signals from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, blood nutrient levels, and GI tract hormones. Communication between the gut and brain via vagal nerve fibers plays a significant role in evaluating the contents of the gut. Clinical studies have shown that protein ingestion produces a more prolonged response in these nerve fibers compared to an equivalent amount of glucose. Additionally, the activation of stretch receptors caused by GI...
232