Physical activity mediates the relationship between fruit and vegetable consumption and cognitive functioning: a cross-sectional analysis.
Excess adiposity is associated with impairments in cognitive functioning, whereas physical activity (PA) and fruit and vegetable consumption (FVC) may be protective against cognitive decline. Therefore, this study investigated the interrelationships between FVC, body mass index (BMI), PA and cognitive functioning in younger and older adults.



Cross-sectional data of 45 522 participants (≥30 years) were examined from the 2012 annual component of the Canadian Community Health Survey. Cognitive function was assessed using a single six-level question of the Health Utilities Index. PA was classified according to the Physical Activity Index kilocalories per kilogram per day  as active, moderately active and inactive; BMI was measured in kg/m2 and FVC (servings/day) was classified as low, moderate or high. To assess the interrelationship between FVC, BMI, PA, age and cognitive functioning, general linear models and mediation analyses were used.



Higher BMIs, lower PA and FVC were associated with poorer cognitive functioning. Additionally, PA statistically mediated the relationship between FVC and cognitive function (Sobel test: t = -3.15; P < 0.002); and higher education levels and daily FVC were associated with better cognitive function (P < 0.001).



Higher PA levels were associated with better cognitive functioning in younger and older adults. Also, higher daily FVC and education levels were associated with better cognitive scores.
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada.
Alina
A
Cohen
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada.
Chris I
CI
Ardern
School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada.
Joseph
J
Baker
D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015992:Body Mass Index; D002170:Canada / Q000453:epidemiology; D003071:Cognition; D060825:Cognitive Dysfunction / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004032:Diet / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D005638:Fruit; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D012737:Sex Factors; D014675:Vegetables
food and nutrition; physical activity; public health