- June 28, 2021
More than 43% of American adults between 40-50 years old are considered obese. Mid-life obesity is linked to multiple chronic diseases, with a significant connection to cognitive decline and neurocognitive diagnosis, including dementia and Alzheimer’s. Research shows that cognitive performance can be improved in adults with obesity who lose a significant amount of weight. While achieving sustained weight loss remains challenging, the practice of mindful eating shows promise as a weight management strategy.

The ASU Institute for Social Sciences Research (ISSR) awarded seed grant funding to CHPDP postdoctoral fellow, Dr. Dara James, for her project, “Weight reduction and cognitive health: A pilot study testing a remotely delivered, mindful eating intervention among obese mid-life adults.” The project will enroll mid-life adults with obesity to participate in a remotely delivered intervention to improve cognitive function and reduce risk factors for obesity-related diseases.

“We are excited for the opportunity to conduct this important research exploring weight reduction and cognitive function among midlife adults through the use of an innovative mindful eating intervention,” stated James. “This intervention holds promise as a remotely delivered, integrative approach to improved health.”

ASU collaborators include Dr. Linda Larkey (Edson College) and Drs. Edward Ofori and Dorothy Sears (College of Health Solutions). Congratulations to Dr. James and her research team!