Increased Brain Connectivity in Obese Teens
Author Information
Author(s): Olde Dubbelink Kim T. E., Felius Abraham, Verbunt Jeroen P. A., van Dijk Bob W., Berendse Henk W., Stam Cornelis J., Delemarre-van de Waal Henriette A.
Primary Institution: VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
Obesity is associated with alterations in cortical communication processes.
Conclusion
The study found that obese adolescents have increased resting-state functional connectivity in their brains compared to lean adolescents.
Supporting Evidence
- Obese adolescents showed increased synchronization in delta and beta frequency bands compared to lean controls.
- The study used magnetoencephalography to measure brain activity.
- Increased functional connectivity may impact cognitive functioning in obese adolescents.
Takeaway
Obese teenagers have brains that work together differently than those of their lean peers, which might affect how they think and feel.
Methodology
Magnetoencephalographic recordings were performed in 11 obese and 8 lean female adolescents during a resting-state condition.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the exclusion of participants with chronic diseases and those with metal devices.
Limitations
The study was limited to female adolescents and had a small sample size.
Participant Demographics
11 obese and 8 lean female adolescents aged 12-19 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001 for delta, 0.002 for beta
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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