OBESITY AND EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONS: THE CRITICAL ROLE OF THE PREFRONTAL CORTEX – A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by excessive fat accumulation and a multifactorial etiology. One potential contributing factor is impaired executive functioning in individuals with obesity, including deficits in planning, decision-making, and inhibitory control. These impairments may lead to increased impulsivity and difficulties with self-regulation in the context of eating behavior, ultimately contributing to excessive body weight and challenges in achieving weight reduction. The primary brain region responsible for executive functions is the prefrontal cortex. Aim of the study: This review aims to synthesize recent research on the relationship between obesity and executive functions, with particular focus on the prefrontal cortex as both a key modulator of these cognitive processes and a potential target for therapeutic interventions in the management of excessive body weight. Methods: This review was compiled through an extensive analysis of the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. It includes a literature review from [insert year range], with particular emphasis on articles from the past 5 years focusing on the keywords: „obesity”, „prefrontal cortex”, „executive function”, „cognitive function”. Conclusions: Obesity represents a growing health problem with significant clinical and social consequences. Alterations in the prefrontal cortex observed in individuals with obesity may lead to impairments in executive functions, such as reduced impulse control and decision-making difficulties. These dysfunctions can contribute to the development of obesity, while obesity itself may further exacerbate them, creating a vicious cycle. Therefore, interventions aimed at enhancing executive functions could serve as a valuable complement to obesity treatment. However, further consistent research is needed to determine their effectiveness and practical applicability.