NAPLES, Italy—Obese individuals who lose weight experience significant improvement in cognitive performance in memory and attention/executive functioning, according to new research published in the November issue of Obesity Reviews.
Researchers at the University of Naples conducted a meta-analysis to estimate the effectiveness of intentional weight loss on cognitive function in overweight and obese adults. A total of 12 studies met the inclusion criteria, including seven randomized trials and five that included a control group. Data were extracted on study design, age, nutritional status, weight-loss strategy, weight lost and cognitive testing.
Weight loss was associated with a low-order significant effect on improvement in cognitive performance in memory and attention/executive functioning (effect size, 0.13 and 0.14, respectively). Studies exhibited heterogeneity in design, sample selection, weight-loss interventions, and evaluation of cognitive function.
The researchers concluded weight loss appears to be associated with low-order improvements in executive/attention functioning and memory in obese but not in overweight individuals.
