Healthcare

Biography

Biography: Jayanthi Raman

Abstract

Research has shown that obese individuals have executive deficits, leading to poor planning and difficulties in impulse control and decision-making. In addition, weight loss failure has been linked to these executive deficiencies. The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy of a novel, manualised cognitive remediation therapy for obesity (CRT-O) intended to improve executive function, enhance reflective practice and help weight loss maintenance. Methods: 80 obese adults (body mass index >30 kg/m2), 70% with binge eating disorder, received three weekly sessions of group Behaviour Weight Loss Treatment and then were randomised to receive 8 sessions of individual CRT-O or to a no-treatment control group. Results: Results showed that the CRT-O group had a significant increase in executive function at post-treatment and 3-month follow up compared to the control group (Cohen’s d = 0.87 to 2.1). Weight loss interventions are considered to be clinically significant if participants lose ≥5% of their total body weight. 68% of those in the CRT-O group achieved a weight loss of 5% or more at follow-up compared to only 15% of the controls (Cohen’s d = 1.2). Changes in executive function predicted changes in weight (p<.05). Binge eating also reduced in the CRT-O group compared to the control condition (Cohen’s d = 0.83). Conclusions: The findings support further development of CRT-O as an individual or adjunctive therapy to improve outcomes for people with obesity and binge eating.