Real-time decreases in cognitive functioning are associated with increases in high-calorie snacking: the SNAPSHOT study

Abstract

Background: Failures of dietary control and increases in weight are reliably associated with trait-level (between-person) deficits in the ‘executive functions’ (EFs) – the cognitive processes underpinning self-control. As EF also fluctuates within-people over time, the present study investigated whether people eat more high-calorie snacks at times when EF resources are depleted. Methods: 65 adults (50F, M age=38.9years) completed a trait EF questionnaire (BRIEF-A) before recording food intake and completing a computerised EF test (GoNoGo) every waking hour over 7 consecutive days using a wrist-mounted electronic diary (ProDiary). Data were analysed using multi-level modelling. Findings: Slow reaction times on the hourly GoNoGo task (indicative of weak EF) were associated with increases in self-reported intake of high-calorie snacks (p<.05). Performance on the GoNoGo task significantly interacted with trait levels of EF (p<.05) in predicting snacking. Discussion: Real-time reductions in EF efficiency are associated with increases in high-calorie snacking. This relationship is strongest in those with weak trait EF, indicating that individuals with EF deficits are more likely than others to snack in response to momentary reductions in EF resource.