La Marra M, Ilardi CR, Villano I, Polito R, Sibillo MR, Franchetti M, Caggiano A, Strangio F, Messina G, Monda V, Di Maio G, Messina A. Higher general executive functions predicts lower body mass index by mitigating avoidance behaviors.
Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022;
13:1048363. [PMID:
36440204 PMCID:
PMC9681800 DOI:
10.3389/fendo.2022.1048363]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND
The present study examines the relationship between obesity, executive functions, and body image in a nonclinical population from southern Italy.
METHODS
General executive functioning (Frontal Assessment Battery-15), and body image disturbances (Body Uneasiness Test) were assessed in a sample including 255 participants (138 females, M age = 43.51 years, SD = 17.94, range = 18-86 years; M body mass index (BMI) = 26.21, SD = 4.32, range = 18.03-38.79).
FINDINGS
Multiple Linear Regression Analysis indicated that age, years of education, FAB15 score, body image concerns, and avoidance predicted the variance of BMI. A subsequent mediation analysis highlighted that the indirect effect of FAB15 on BMI through avoidance was statistically significant.
INTERPRETATION
Our results suggest that more performing executive functioning predicts a decrease in BMI that is partially due to the mitigation of avoidance behaviors.
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