Research
Adherence
Intensive lifestyle weight loss intervention is associated with a relative benefit in composite cognitive function for overweight individuals (BMI < 30 kg/m2) but not for obese individuals (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2).
If you are overweight (BMI < 30) with type 2 diabetes, an intensive 8-year weight loss program may offer cognitive benefits. If you are obese (BMI ≥ 30), the same program may not improve cognitive function, possibly because you remain obese after weight loss. Aim for significant weight reduction, potentially aiming for normal weight if possible.
GoodQualifiesMEDIUM confidence
Intensive lifestyle intervention was associated with a relative mean benefit for composite cognitive function of 0.276 (95% confidence interval: 0.033, 0.520) SDs among individuals with body mass index less than 30 kg/m2 at baseline compared with a relative mean deficit of 0.086 (−0.021, 0.194) SDs among individuals with body mass more than or equal to 30 kg/m2.
Why this rating
RCT with long duration, but the subgroup finding is nominal (p=.008) and requires caution.
Source
Long-term Impact of Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention on Cognitive Function
Mark A. Espeland et al. · The Journals of Gerontology Series A · 2014
rct · n=978Cited 77×
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