Modifiable lifestyle factors associated with cognitive functioning among college students

Cognitive health is crucial for lifelong independence, yet public health initiatives often overlook young adults, despite the importance of modifiable lifestyle factors alongside non-modifiable risks like age and genetics. This study investigated the associations between social engagement, diet, physical activity, sleep, and alcohol use, and cognitive task performance in a sample of 126 college students. Participants completed a cognitive battery measuring performance on tasks of executive function indexed by inhibitory control and cognitive set-shifting, working memory, processing speed, verbal learning, and memory, along with self-report lifestyle questionnaires. We hypothesized that healthier behaviors would predict higher cognitive performance. Only the regression model predicting Trail Making Task B was statistically significant. Social engagement was the most consistent predictor and was associated with better performance across several cognitive tasks. The Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet adherence approached significance with better working memory performance. Furthermore, moderation analyses revealed several significant interactions. These findings highlight specific, modifiable lifestyle patterns in young adulthood that may be relevant to long-term cognitive resilience, informing the development of targeted early intervention strategies.