Obesity Reduces Cognitive and Motor Functions across the Lifespan

Abstract

Due to a sedentary lifestyle, more and more people are becoming obese nowadays. In addition to health-related problems, obesity can also impair cognition and motor performance. Previous results have shown that obesity mainly affects cognition and motor behaviors through altering brain functions and musculoskeletal system, respectively. Many factors, such as insulin/leptin dysregulation and inflammation, mediate the effect of obesity and cognition and motor behaviors. Substantial evidence has suggested exercise to be an effective way to improve obesity and related cognitive and motor dysfunctions. This paper aims to discuss the association of obesity with cognition and motor behaviors and its underlying mechanisms. Following this, mechanisms of exercise to improve obesity-related dysfunctions are described. Finally, implications and future research direction are raised.

Obesity, Cytokines and Cognition across the Lifespan among People Living with HIV

“…Specifically, completing the task with the non-dominant hand took significantly longer in older obese adults than in their leaner counterparts. Findings are of concern because motor dexterity can affect daily living functions [34].…”

Executive Summary: Research Gaps at the Intersection of Pediatric Neurodevelopment, Nutrition, and Inflammation in Low-Resource Settings

“…They are listed below in no particular order of priority. 38 Possible mechanisms include inflammation, oxidative stress, decreased motor performance associated with a degraded musculoskeletal system, and alterations in brain structure, leptin/insulin regulation, cerebrovascular function, and/or blood-brain barrier function.…”

High maysin corn silk extract reduces body weight and fat deposition in C57BL/6J mice fed high-fat diets

“…In Korea, according to KNHANES, the obesity rate in adults over 19 years was 26.0% in 1998 but increased to 31-32% and has maintained these rates for the past 7 years [21]. Obesity has become an important public health problem and is associated with health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, cancer, reduced life expectancy, and poor cognition and motor control [222324]. It is now a very important goal in nutritional management to maintain a normal body weight and inhibit excessive fat accumulation.…”