Adolescent obesity and dietary decision making—a brain-health perspective

This 2020 review evaluated the neurobiological and neurocognitive evidence on adolescents’ tendencies to consume high-calorie foods, and the neurodevelopmental mechanisms by which the negative effects caused by these foods can worsen. Consuming these calorie-dense foods can hinder self-regulatory processes through its influence on brain function and behavioral control, which can lead to maladaptive dietary behaviors that guide the individual into developing adult obesity and related metabolic syndromes. In order for clinicians to develop effective intervention strategies and reduce the long-term health-care costs associated with obesity, further knowledge on the relationship between adolescence, dietary decision making, and brain function is vital. [NPID: brain, high calorie, energy dense, self-regulation, regulation, self-control, metabolic syndrome, intervention strategies, health-care costs, obesity, decision making, brain function]

Year: 2020

Reference: Lowe, C. J., Morton, J. B., & Reichelt, A. C. (2020). Adolescent obesity and dietary decision making-a brain-health perspective. The Lancet. Child & adolescent health, 4(5), 388–396.