Small gains in memory

Published in: Obes Rev 2011
People studied: –

A pooled analysis of 12 studies found small improvements in memory and attention with weight loss in people with obesity.

Checked against: PubMed 21762426
Published in: Obes Rev 2011
Last checked: 30 October 2026

Key takeaway

This pooled analysis of 12 studies, 7 of them randomised trials, looked at intentional weight loss and thinking skills in adults with overweight or obesity. Weight loss went with small improvements in memory and in attention and related thinking skills. The gains were seen in people with obesity, not in people with overweight.

At a glance

Type of study: pooled analysis of 7 randomised trials and 5 other controlled studies (meta-analysis)
Compared with: control groups
Main result: Weight loss went with small improvements in memory and attention.
Strength of evidence: Long-term or observational studies

What this study does not show

The effects were small, and the studies differed a lot in design, in who took part and in how they tested thinking. The abstract does not give the total number of people.

Results from studies in groups of people, mostly in diet and movement programmes. They cannot be promised to any one person. This information is educational and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.