Executive Function in Weight Loss Maintenance: The Moderating Role of Socioeconomic Status

Abstract

Few individuals with overweight/obesity maintain weight loss. Executive function (EF) and socioeconomic status (SES) contribute to weight loss maintenance (WLM). This study examined whether the relationship between EF and WLM differs across SES. Forty-four participants between 32-78 years of age were assessed ≥ 1-year post-      behavioral obesity intervention. Those who achieved >5% weight loss during the program were recruited for the present study. Participants (N = 44) previously lost >5% of initial body weight. Hierarchical regressions tested the moderating role of SES in the relationship between performance-based EF [Iowa Gambling Task (IGT)] or self-report EF [Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-A)] and %WLM. The relationship between performance-based EF and %WLM varied across SES (p < .05). For those with high SES, a 1-point T-score increase on IGT corresponded with 4.5% greater %WLM (β = .52, p = .03). No association was observed for those with low SES (β = -.12, p = .54). For those with low SES, greater EF may not benefit WLM. For those with high SES, greater EF may benefit WLM. Personalized WLM interventions accounting for levels of SES and EF may best facilitate WLM.

Keywords: executive function, weight loss maintenance, socioeconomic status, obesity