What is the Origin of Adiposity and Cognition?

The term derives from "Adiposity," referencing excess body fat accumulation, and "Cognition," pertaining to mental processes like thinking and knowing. This lexicon entry bridges endocrinology, where fat acts as an endocrine organ, with neuropsychology, analyzing functional outcomes. Its contemporary usage reflects the shift toward viewing obesity as a systemic metabolic challenge impacting brain health.

What is the Mechanism of Adiposity and Cognition?

Adiposity influences cognition primarily through chronic, low-grade systemic inflammation originating from dysfunctional adipocytes. Elevated circulating cytokines can cross the blood-brain barrier, inducing neuroinflammation and impairing synaptic plasticity. Furthermore, insulin resistance, often co-occurring with high adiposity, disrupts cerebral glucose utilization, a critical energy substrate for optimal neuronal function.

Adiposity and Cognition ∞ Area

Adiposity and Cognition

Meaning

The clinical relationship between body fat accumulation, particularly visceral adiposity, and measurable cognitive function. This interaction is central to understanding how metabolic status influences central nervous system integrity and performance. We observe correlations between increased adipose tissue burden and changes in executive function, memory, and processing speed in clinical cohorts.