Is there a role for higher cognitive processes in the development of obesity in humans?

Abstract

Cognition underpins the flexibility of human eating and disruption to higher cognitive processes, such as inhibitory control and memory, and can result in increased food intake, which in the long term could result in weight gain. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the current evidence on cognition as a causal factor in the development of obesity in humans. Evidence from meta-analyses supports the suggestion that cognitive function is cross-sectionally associated with obesity even when controlling for a range of confounding variables. However, this association could be explained by reverse causality because there is also evidence that the metabolic syndrome and a history of excess western diet consumption alters brain structure and cognitive function. Data from longitudinal and interventional studies and from non-human animal models suggest a reciprocal relationship between obesity and cognitive function exists but whether disruption to higher cognitive processes is a primary cause of obesity in humans remains unclear. This article is part of a discussion meeting issue ‘Causes of obesity: theories, conjectures and evidence (Part I)’.

Neurocognitive factors predicting BMI changes from adolescence to young adulthood

“…Although our participants were exposed to the same food environment, those with a higher BMI in adolescence might have a different onset and duration of OW or OB [42]. This exposure to excess weight, and the probable prolonged consumption of an unhealthy diet and the accumulation of adipose tissue [43], occurred before age 16 years and could generate a greater neural vulnerability in these groups.…”

Socio-economic differences in body mass index: the contribution of genetic factors

“…This is consistent with previous results that many genetic variants associated with BMI express in the brain areas important for cognition and memory [ 4 ], and that the genetic factors affect BMI largely through behavior, especially nutrition [ 16 ]. Further, cognitive function is associated with nutrition intake and obesity [ 17 ]. Since health behavior also contributes to the SEP differences in obesity [ 1 ], it is possible that genetic factors affect SEP differences in BMI because the same brain areas are associated with socioeconomic achievement and health behavior, especially nutrition but possibly also physical exercise, through cognitive function.…”

Correlation between visceral fat metabolism score and erectile dysfunction: a cross-sectional study from NHANES 2001-2004

“…Earlier research has ascertained that age, smoking, sedentary behavior, and obesity exhibit robust correlations with ED development, with a subset of cases (20%) attributed to psychological factors ( 23 ). The global economic shift has facilitated the widespread emergence of obesity as a significant public health concern due to a Westernized dietary pattern adopted by populations worldwide ( 24 ). Despite this, the precise mechanistic underpinnings of obesity-related ED remain elusive ( 11 ), motivating researchers to focus on effective preventive strategies for ED within the obese demographic.…”