Executive cognitive function as a correlate and predictor of child food intake and physical activity

Child Neuropsychol. 2010;16(3):279-92. doi: 10.1080/09297041003601488. Epub 2010 Mar 17.

Abstract

Investigated were relations among executive cognitive function (ECF), food intake, and physical activity in 184, fourth grade children. It was hypothesized that self-reported ECF proficiency would predict greater self-reported fruit/vegetable intake and physical activity, but less "snack food" intake. Structural models demonstrated that ECF was significantly correlated with less concurrent snack food intake and greater concurrent fruit/vegetable intake, but not physical activity. Baseline ECF also significantly predicted greater fruit/vegetable intake and physical activity four months later, but not snack food intake. One implication is to promote ECF as a correlate and predictor of food intake and physical activity in children by providing opportunities for youth to practice newly developing ECF capacities.

MeSH terms

  • California
  • Child
  • Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena
  • Cognition*
  • Diet Surveys
  • Eating / psychology*
  • Executive Function*
  • Feeding Behavior*
  • Female
  • Food Preferences*
  • Food Supply
  • Fruit
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motor Activity*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Schools
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Vegetables