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Elevated body mass index in youth is associated with neural disinhibition and internetwork functional dysconnectivity: A magnetoencephalography study
The relationship between obesity and brain development raises significant concerns regarding behavioral outcomes. This study delves into the neurophysiological ramifications of excessive body weight, particularly focusing on youth aged 8 to 19. Using magnetoencephalography (MEG) and a naturalistic viewing protocol, researchers divided participants into two groups based on their normalized body mass index (zBMI): those with zBMI < 1 standard deviation (n = 15) and those with zBMI> 1 standard deviation (n = 17).
Results revealed that higher zBMI correlated with marked increases in gamma activity, indicating heightened neural excitation. Additionally, a lowered exponent and offset were observed across several brain regions, suggesting an imbalance in excitation and inhibition. Notably, participants with elevated zBMI exhibited hypoconnectivity at low frequencies and hyperconnectivity at high frequencies across various brain networks.
These findings shed light on how body composition adversely influences neural functioning during critical developmental phases. Enhanced gamma activity and altered connectivity patterns signal potential deficits in cognitive and behavioral regulation. Ultimately, these neural changes may contribute to long-lasting difficulties in adopting healthier eating habits and inflexible behavior into adulthood. [NPID: obesity, brain development, behavioral outcomes, body composition, neurodevelopment]
Year: 2026
