The Effect of Physical Activity Level on Executive Functions in Obese Cases

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the executive functions (inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility and working memory) of obese subjects with different levels of physical activity. Material and Method: The study included 31 obese subjects. The patients were divided into two groups: high physical activity (HAOG, n=14) and minimal physical activity (MAOG, n=17), according to International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF). After the demographic data of the subjects were recorded, the body fat ratio was assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis. Inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility, and working memory were evaluated with Stroop Test Çapa Form, Trail Making Test A-B, and 2-back test, respectively. Results: Body mass index, age, waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist/hip ratio were similar between the groups, whereas the percentage of fat mass was lower in HAOG (p=0.016) and the percentage of muscle mass was higher in HAOG (p=0.009). Inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility and working memory scores were similar in the groups in our study (p>0.05). Conclusion: According to the results of our study, although executive functions were similar in obese subjects with different physical activity levels, further studies are needed due to the limitations of publications in this field.