Work

Cognitive Training: Associations and Implications for Weight Management and Translational Research

Year: 2021

Type: article

Abstract: Behavioral weight loss programs combining energy restriction and increased physical activity (PA) are generally successful in producing clinically significant weight loss (≥5%) over 3-6 mos. However, weight maintenance (≥ 2 yrs.) continues to be problematic, due in part to an inability of individuals to continue adherence to diet and PA recommendations. It is hypothesized that neurocognitive processes, specifically executive functions (EFs, i.e., inhibition, working memory, mental flexibility), underlie self-regulation, self-efficacy, and are essential for the adoption and maintenance of health behaviors. Behavioral weight loss programs generally attempt to improve self-regulation; however, these skills are difficult to implement long-term. Strengthening EFs through cognitive training may improve weight maintenance by improving self-efficacy and self-regulation, resulting in improved program attendance and improved adherence to dietary and PA recommendations. Although randomized trials have not been conducted to specifically evaluate this hypothesis, results from the available literature suggest the potential for cognitive training to improve weight maintenance.

Source: Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine

DOI: 10.1249/tjx.0000000000000151

Authors: Amanda N. Szabo-Reed, Joseph E. Donnelly

Institution: University of Kansas Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Behavioral Health and Interventions

Subfield: Applied Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences