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Effectiveness of wearable activity trackers to increase physical activity and improve health: a systematic review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Ferguson, T, Olds, T, Curtis, R, Blake, H, Crozier, AJ, Dankiw, K, Dumuid, D, Kasai, D, O'Connor, E, Virgara, R, et al
The Lancet. Digital health. 2022;4(8):e615-e626
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A sedentary or physically inactive lifestyle significantly contributes to non-communicable diseases such as coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke. Wearable activity trackers are low-cost solutions that encourage users to engage in physical activity. This umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses investigated the benefits of wearable activity trackers in improving physical activity levels and their beneficial effects on physiological and psychosocial outcomes. This umbrella review included thirty-nine systematic reviews, of which twenty-five systematic reviews included meta-analyses of the benefits of wearable trackers on physical activity levels. Results of this umbrella review suggest that wearable trackers increased physical activity levels, especially daily steps count and energy expenditure. The physiological outcomes included improvements in BMI, blood pressure, cholesterol, glycosylated haemoglobin, waist circumference, and body weight. There was also a slight improvement in the quality of life of the participants who used wearable activity trackers. Further robust studies are required to evaluate the effects of wearable trackers on the psychosocial outcomes in people with mental illness. However, healthcare professionals can use the results of this study to understand the impact of wearable trackers on physiological and psychosocial effects in a non-clinical population.
Abstract
Wearable activity trackers offer an appealing, low-cost tool to address physical inactivity. This systematic review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses (umbrella review) aimed to examine the effectiveness of activity trackers for improving physical activity and related physiological and psychosocial outcomes in clinical and non-clinical populations. Seven databases (Embase, MEDLINE, Ovid Emcare, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) were searched from database inception to April 8, 2021. Systematic reviews of primary studies using activity trackers as interventions and reporting physical activity, physiological, or psychosocial outcomes were eligible for inclusion. In total, 39 systematic reviews and meta-analyses were identified, reporting results from 163 992 participants spanning all age groups, from both healthy and clinical populations. Taken together, the meta-analyses suggested activity trackers improved physical activity (standardised mean difference [SMD] 0·3-0·6), body composition (SMD 0·7-2·0), and fitness (SMD 0·3), equating to approximately 1800 extra steps per day, 40 min per day more walking, and reductions of approximately 1 kg in bodyweight. Effects for other physiological (blood pressure, cholesterol, and glycosylated haemoglobin) and psychosocial (quality of life and pain) outcomes were typically small and often non-significant. Activity trackers appear to be effective at increasing physical activity in a variety of age groups and clinical and non-clinical populations. The benefit is clinically important and is sustained over time. Based on the studies evaluated, there is sufficient evidence to recommend the use of activity trackers.
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Effects of Multi-Component Exercise on Sleep Quality in Middle-Aged Adults.
Ai, JY, Kuan, G, Juang, LY, Lee, CH, Kueh, YC, Chu, IH, Geng, XL, Chang, YK
International journal of environmental research and public health. 2022;19(23)
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Sleep is a crucial factor in healthy aging. Good sleep may enhance cognition, mental health, ability to engage in activities, self-reported health and reduce fragility. Aging is associated with declines in most physiological systems that culminate in sleep changes and limited physical function. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of multi-component exercise (MCE) on sleep quality and physical fitness among middle-aged adults. This study was a randomised controlled trial with a quasi-experimental design. The participants were randomly assigned to either the multi-component exercise or the control group. Results showed that a 12-week MCE program was effective in improving sleep quality (global sleep quality, sleep disturbances, and sleep efficiency) and flexibility and preventing a decline of muscular strength in middle-aged adults. Authors conclude that their findings provide support for the multi-component exercise training as a new strategy for health promotion in this population.
Abstract
Sleep is a crucial factor in healthy aging. However, most middle-aged adults experience high levels of sleep disorders. While previous findings have suggested exercise training could benefit the quality of sleep, the effects of multi-component exercise on sleep quality are less examined. Accordingly, the current study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a multi-component exercise program on the quality of sleep among middle-aged adults. Twenty-four middle-aged adults were randomly assigned either to a multi-component exercise (MCE) group or a control group. The participants in the MCE group attended a 90-min session per week for 12 weeks. The control group was instructed to maintain their daily routine for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was the sleep quality evaluated by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The secondary outcome was physical fitness, including muscular strength and endurance, balance, and flexibility. Regarding sleep quality, the global mean score (p = 028), sleep disturbances (p = 011), and sleep efficiency (p = 035) of the PSQI scores were significantly reduced in the MCE group after the 12-week intervention. Regarding physical fitness, the flexibility of the MCE group improved significantly after the intervention (p = 028), yet, no significant change was observed in the control group. Additionally, the muscular strength of the control group declined significantly after the 12-week period (p = 034). Our results revealed the effectiveness of the MCE intervention in improving sleep quality and physical fitness in middle-aged adults. Further studies using larger sample sizes, objective measures of sleep quality, different types of exercise training, as well as different populations, are warranted to extend our current findings.
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Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Mitochondrial Respiration and Physical Performance in Middle-Aged Athletes: A Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial.
Hadanny, A, Hachmo, Y, Rozali, D, Catalogna, M, Yaakobi, E, Sova, M, Gattegno, H, Abu Hamed, R, Lang, E, Polak, N, et al
Sports medicine - open. 2022;8(1):22
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Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) utilizes 100% oxygen in an environmental pressure higher than one absolute atmosphere. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of an intermittent HBOT protocol on maximal physical performance and its effect on mitochondrial function in middle-aged master athletes. This study is a double-blind, randomized, 1:1 ratio, placebo-controlled study of healthy middle-aged master athletes. Thirty-seven healthy master athletes, aged 40–50, who performed aerobic sports at least four times a week at moderate-high performance were enrolled in the study. Results show that HBOT may significantly enhance physical performance beyond training in healthy master athletes. Moreover, HBOT may directly improve mitochondrial respiration and increase mitochondrial mass. Thus, the main improvements include maximal oxygen consumption, power and the anaerobic threshold. Authors conclude that HBOT can enhance physical performance in healthy adults.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been used to increase endurance performance but has yet to be evaluated in placebo-controlled clinical trials. The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of an intermittent HBOT protocol on maximal physical performance and mitochondrial function in middle-aged master athletes. METHODS A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study on 37 healthy middle-aged (40-50) master athletes was performed between 2018 and 2020. The subjects were exposed to 40 repeated sessions of either HBOT [two absolute atmospheres (ATA), breathing 100% oxygen for 1 h] or SHAM (1.02ATA, breathing air for 1 h). RESULTS Out of 37 athletes, 16 HBOT and 15 SHAM allocated athletes were included in the final analysis. Following HBOT, there was a significant increase in the maximal oxygen consumption (VO2Max) (p = 0.010, effect size(es) = 0.989) and in the oxygen consumption measured at the anaerobic threshold (VO2AT)(es = 0.837) compared to the SHAM group. Following HBOT, there were significant increases in both maximal oxygen phosphorylation capacity (es = 1.085, p = 0.04), maximal uncoupled capacity (es = 0.956, p = 0.02) and mitochondrial mass marker MTG (p = 0.0002) compared to the SHAM sessions. CONCLUSION HBOT enhances physical performance in healthy middle-age master athletes, including VO2max, power and VO2AT. The mechanisms may be related to significant improvements in mitochondrial respiration and increased mitochondrial mass. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03524989 (May 15, 2018).
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The Sprint-Interval Exercise Using a Spinning Bike Improves Physical Fitness and Ameliorates Primary Dysmenorrhea Symptoms Through Hormone and Inflammation Modulations: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Huang, WC, Chiu, PC, Ho, CH
Journal of sports science & medicine. 2022;21(4):595-607
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Menstruation is regulated by hormonal modulation mediated by the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal axis through the gonadotropin-releasing hormone, follicular-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) intervention on the amelioration of discomfort and distress symptoms characteristic of primary dysmenorrhea and its effects on inflammation and hormone modulation. This study is a randomised controlled trial. The participants were randomly assigned to the control (n = 16) or dysmenorrhea (n = 32) group. Results show that HIIT exercise model may improve a person’s physical attributes such as cardiovascular fitness and explosive force. Additionally, premenstrual symptoms, menstrual distress, and menstrual pain were also significantly ameliorated on implementation of the 10-week HIIT spinning bike exercise. Authors conclude that HIIT exercise model may be considered as an avenue for promoting women’s health and as an adequate way for improving quality of life, study/work productivity, and as a possible prevention method against gynaecological disorders in the adolescent population.
Abstract
Dysmenorrhea with high prevalence has been categorized as primary dysmenorrhea (PD) and secondary dysmenorrhea due to differences in pathogenesis. A significant number of reproductive females suffering from monthly menstruation have to deal with negative impacts on their quality of life, work/study productivity, activities, and social relationships. In addition to medical treatment, exercise has been recognized as a complementary and alternative strategy for disease prevention, alleviation, and rehabilitation. This study aimed to investigate the potential effects of exercise on the severity of primary dysmenorrhea, physiological modulation, and physical fitness. Participants consisted of university students who were enrolled in the study and divided into a non-PD (Control) and a PD group based on recruiting criteria, the latter being randomly assigned to either an untreated dysmenorrhea group or a dysmenorrhea group that underwent 10 weeks of high intensity interval training (HIIT) exercise (Dysmen and DysmenHIIT, respectively). The DysmenHIIT group used spinning bikes and the training intensity was validated by heart rate monitors and BORG rating of perceived exertion. Forms containing participant information (premenstrual symptoms, menstrual distress, and a Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire) as well as physical fitness, biochemical variables, hormone and prostaglandin (PGE2 and PGF2α) levels were assessed before and after the exercise intervention. After intervention, premenstrual symptoms (anger, anxiety, depression, activity level, fatigue, etc.), menstrual distress symptoms (cramps, aches, swelling, etc.), and pain severity were shown to be significantly mitigated, possibly through hormone (estradiol, prolactin, progesterone, and cortisol) modulation. Furthermore, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (HsCRP), PGE2 and PGF2α levels were also down-regulated, resulting in the amelioration of uterine contraction and inflammation. Participants' physical fitness, including cardiovascular endurance and explosive force, was significantly improved after HIIT. The 10-week HIIT spinning bike exercise used in this study could be employed as a potential and complementary treatment for PD symptoms alleviation and considered as part of an educational health plan for promoting women's health. However, the effects of HIIT utilizing different exercise methods and accounting for different age populations and secondary PD warrant further investigation.
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Effects of Chronic Supplementation of L-Arginine on Physical Fitness in Water Polo Players.
Gambardella, J, Fiordelisi, A, Spigno, L, Boldrini, L, Lungonelli, G, Di Vaia, E, Santulli, G, Sorriento, D, Cerasuolo, FA, Trimarco, V, et al
Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity. 2021;2021:6684568
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The amino acid L-Arginine contributes to the regulation of energetic metabolism in cells, by participating in the Krebs cycle after conversion in citrulline. Nutrition participates greatly in the development of endurance and power capabilities in response to training. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 4-week, 5 grams per day, dietary L-Arginine supplementation on serum biochemistry and exercise performance in elite water polo players. This study is a single-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, randomized study. The participants were randomly assigned to the L-Arginine (n = 9) or placebo (n = 8) parallel groups. Results show that in elite water polo players, chronic L-Arginine supplementation ameliorates aerobic energy expenditure, possibly due to a positive effect on mitochondrial energetics. Authors conclude that administration of chronic L-Arginine to high-intensity athletes is safe and effective in ameliorating physical performance.
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ergogenic nutritional supplementation is sought by professional athletes for improving physical performance; nevertheless, scientific evidence to support the chronic use of L-Arginine among water polo players is missing. METHODS Seventeen male professional water polo players were randomly assigned to assume 5 grams per day of L-Arginine (n = 9) or placebo (n = 8) for 4 weeks. The players' fitness level was assessed in the maximal speed swimming test. Ear lobe blood samples taken before and after the effort for serum lactate content were analyzed. A speed-to-lactate ratio was generated at the baseline and after 4 weeks of treatment. We also tested the effects of L-Arginine in vitro, measuring NO production, mitochondrial respiration, and gene expression in human fibroblasts. RESULTS L-Arginine did not modify BMI, muscle strength, and maximal speed at 200 meters after 4 weeks. However, L-Arginine ameliorated oxidative metabolism to exercise as suggested by the statistically significant lower lactate-to-speed ratio, which was not observed in placebo-treated controls. In vitro, L-Arginine induced the expression of a key regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis (PGC1α) and genes encoding for complex I and increased the production of nitric oxide and the maximal oxygen consumption rate. CONCLUSIONS Chronic L-Arginine is safe and effective in ameliorating the oxidative metabolism of professional water polo players, through a mechanism of enhanced mitochondrial function.
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Changes in physical activity and sedentary behaviours from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown: a systematic review.
Stockwell, S, Trott, M, Tully, M, Shin, J, Barnett, Y, Butler, L, McDermott, D, Schuch, F, Smith, L
BMJ open sport & exercise medicine. 2021;7(1):e000960
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COVID-19 has led several countries to enforce social distancing in order to reduce the rate of transmission, commonly called ‘lockdown’. These lockdowns have impacted people’s work, education, travel and recreation, and subsequent levels of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviours (SB). The aim of this study was to review and compare the changes in all reported PA and SB behaviours during versus before the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, stratifying between adults and children, and special populations. This study is a systemic review of 66 studies which yielded a total of 86981 participants with an age range between 13 and 86 years. Results demonstrated that the majority of studies found that PA declined and SB increased during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, regardless of the subpopulation. In healthy adults and children, PA during lockdown decreased compared with pre-lockdown, despite various government organisations and health or exercise practitioners providing guidance on how to stay active during the pandemic and in self-quarantine. Authors conclude that the public health officials should promote ways of increasing PA and reducing SB should further lockdowns occur, especially in populations with medical conditions that are improved by PA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In March 2020, several countries banned unnecessary outdoor activities during COVID-19, commonly called 'lockdowns. These lockdowns have the potential to impact associated levels of physical activity and sedentary behaviour. Given the numerous health outcomes associated with physical activity and sedentary behaviour, the aim of this review was to summarise literature that investigated differences in physical activity and sedentary behaviour before vs during the COVID-19 lockdown. DESIGN DATA SOURCES AND ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Electronic databases were searched from November 2019 to October 2020 using terms and synonyms relating to physical activity, sedentary behaviour and COVID-19. The coprimary outcomes were changes in physical activity and/or sedentary behaviour captured via device-based measures or self-report tools. Risk of bias was measured using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS Sixty six articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review (total n=86 981). Changes in physical activity were reported in 64 studies, with the majority of studies reporting decreases in physical activity and increases in sedentary behaviours during their respective lockdowns across several populations, including children and patients with a variety of medical conditions. CONCLUSION Given the numerous physical and mental benefits of increased physical activity and decreased sedentary behaviour, public health strategies should include the creation and implementation of interventions that promote safe physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviour should other lockdowns occur.
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Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training, Moderate Continuous Training, or Guideline-Based Physical Activity Advice on Peak Oxygen Consumption in Patients With Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
Mueller, S, Winzer, EB, Duvinage, A, Gevaert, AB, Edelmann, F, Haller, B, Pieske-Kraigher, E, Beckers, P, Bobenko, A, Hommel, J, et al
JAMA. 2021;325(6):542-551
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Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a condition in which the heart's lower left chamber is less able to pump blood due to stiffness. The prevalence of HFpEF is high among the elderly. Endurance exercise is known to increase peak oxygen consumption (Vo2). This prospective, randomised, controlled, three-armed, multi-centre trial aimed to understand the effects of endurance training in older people with HFpEF at 3 and 12 months. In this study, 180 sedentary patients with HFpEF were randomly assigned to high-intensity interval training, moderate continuous training, or control of home-based tele-guideline physical activity advice. The study found no statistically significant difference in changes in V̇o2 between high-intensity interval and moderate continuous training, and neither group met the clinically significant difference of 2.5 mL/kg/min compared with the guideline control. Diastolic function or natriuretic peptides did not change significantly in any group. Adherence level was lower among elderly patients, and there were serious adverse effects in patients with HFpEE. Healthcare professionals can use the findings of this study to understand the impact and adverse effects of endurance training at different intensities in patients with HFpEE.
Abstract
Importance: Endurance exercise is effective in improving peak oxygen consumption (peak V̇o2) in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). However, it remains unknown whether differing modes of exercise have different effects. Objective: To determine whether high-intensity interval training, moderate continuous training, and guideline-based advice on physical activity have different effects on change in peak V̇o2 in patients with HFpEF. Design, Setting, and Participants: Randomized clinical trial at 5 sites (Berlin, Leipzig, and Munich, Germany; Antwerp, Belgium; and Trondheim, Norway) from July 2014 to September 2018. From 532 screened patients, 180 sedentary patients with chronic, stable HFpEF were enrolled. Outcomes were analyzed by core laboratories blinded to treatment groups; however, the patients and staff conducting the evaluations were not blinded. Interventions: Patients were randomly assigned (1:1:1; n = 60 per group) to high-intensity interval training (3 × 38 minutes/week), moderate continuous training (5 × 40 minutes/week), or guideline control (1-time advice on physical activity according to guidelines) for 12 months (3 months in clinic followed by 9 months telemedically supervised home-based exercise). Main Outcomes and Measures: Primary end point was change in peak V̇o2 after 3 months, with the minimal clinically important difference set at 2.5 mL/kg/min. Secondary end points included changes in metrics of cardiorespiratory fitness, diastolic function, and natriuretic peptides after 3 and 12 months. Results: Among 180 patients who were randomized (mean age, 70 years; 120 women [67%]), 166 (92%) and 154 (86%) completed evaluation at 3 and 12 months, respectively. Change in peak V̇o2 over 3 months for high-intensity interval training vs guideline control was 1.1 vs -0.6 mL/kg/min (difference, 1.5 [95% CI, 0.4 to 2.7]); for moderate continuous training vs guideline control, 1.6 vs -0.6 mL/kg/min (difference, 2.0 [95% CI, 0.9 to 3.1]); and for high-intensity interval training vs moderate continuous training, 1.1 vs 1.6 mL/kg/min (difference, -0.4 [95% CI, -1.4 to 0.6]). No comparisons were statistically significant after 12 months. There were no significant changes in diastolic function or natriuretic peptides. Acute coronary syndrome was recorded in 4 high-intensity interval training patients (7%), 3 moderate continuous training patients (5%), and 5 guideline control patients (8%). Conclusions and Relevance: Among patients with HFpEF, there was no statistically significant difference in change in peak V̇o2 at 3 months between those assigned to high-intensity interval vs moderate continuous training, and neither group met the prespecified minimal clinically important difference compared with the guideline control. These findings do not support either high-intensity interval training or moderate continuous training compared with guideline-based physical activity for patients with HFpEF. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02078947.
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High-Intensity Interval Circuit Training Versus Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training on Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Middle-Aged and Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Ballesta-García, I, Martínez-González-Moro, I, Ramos-Campo, DJ, Carrasco-Poyatos, M
International journal of environmental research and public health. 2020;17(5)
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Ageing populations have increased in recent years increasing the prevalence of chronic diseases. Chronic diseases can impact the elderly in many ways and see them unable to perform day to day activities. Maintaining fitness may prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease from developing and ensure that these individuals maintain their independence. This randomised control trial of fifty-four middle-aged and older women aimed to compare the effects of high-intensity interval circuit training (HIICT) versus moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on measures of fitness over 18 weeks. The results showed that measures of aerobic fitness were improved with both HIICT and MICT, however HIICT showed slightly greater improvements than MICT. Blood pressure was improved in both exercise groups compared to control. It was concluded that both types of exercise can increase aerobic fitness, although HIICT may have a slightly greater benefit. This study could be used by practitioners to recommend the use of either HIICT or MICT to increase fitness, prevent chronic diseases and ensure that independence is maintained in middle-aged and older female patients.
Abstract
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has similar or better effects than moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) in increasing peak oxygen consumption (VO2max), however, it has not been studied when HIIT is applied in a circuit (HIICT). The aim of this study was to compare the effects of a HIICT versus MICT on VO2max estimated (VO2max-ES), heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) of middle-aged and older women. A quasi-experimental randomized controlled trial was used. Fifty-four women (67.8 ± 6.2 years) were randomized to either HIICT (n = 18), MICT (n = 18) or non-exercise control group (CG; n = 18) for 18 weeks. Participants in HIICT and MICT trained two days/week (one hour/session). Forty-one participants were assessed (HIICT; n = 17, MICT; n = 12, CG; n = 12). Five adverse events were reported. Cardiorespiratory fitness, HR and BP were measured. The tests were performed before and after the exercise intervention programs. VO2max-ES showed significant training x group interaction, in which HIICT and MICT were statistically superior to CG. Moreover, HIICT and MICT were statistically better than CG in the diastolic blood pressure after exercise (DBPex) interaction. For the systolic blood pressure after exercise (SBPex), HIICT was statistically better than CG. In conclusion, both HIICT and MICT generated adaptations in VO2max-ES and DBPex. Furthermore, only HIICT generated positive effects on the SBPex. Therefore, both training methods can be considered for use in exercise programs involving middle-aged and older women.
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An exercise-based educational and motivational intervention after surgery can improve behaviors, physical fitness and quality of life in bariatric patients.
Gallé, F, Marte, G, Cirella, A, Di Dio, M, Miele, A, Ricchiuti, R, Liguori, F, Maida, P, Liguori, G
PloS one. 2020;15(10):e0241336
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Bariatric surgery is currently the most effective method of weight loss for individuals with obesity. However sustained weight loss after surgery can be hindered by unhealthy behaviours that have sustained since before the procedure. Motivational, educational, diet and exercise programmes have been shown to help sustain weight loss following surgery. This non-randomised control trial over 12 months, aimed to assess the effects of a motivational, educational diet and exercise programme on fitness and quality of life in 82 individuals following bariatric surgery. The results showed that a diet and exercise programme improved quality of life and fitness. There was an increased daily intake of fruits and vegetables, eating behaviours were improved and there was a greater weight loss in those following the programme. It was concluded that the diet and exercise programme was responsible for behavioural changes that ensured better quality of life and sustained weight loss following surgery. Health care professionals could use this study to understand the need to recommend motivational and educationally based diet and exercise programme to patients following bariatric surgery.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Unhealthy lifestyles may hinder bariatric surgery outcomes. This non-randomized controlled study aimed to evaluate the effects of an integrated post-operative exercise-based educational and motivational program in improving behaviors, quality of life, anthropometric features, cardiorespiratory and physical fitness in bariatric patients respect to the only surgical intervention. METHODS A group of adult sedentary bariatric patients chose to attend a 12-month exercise program integrated with diet education and motivational support, or to receive usual care. Dietary habits, binge eating disorder, physical activity, obesity-related quality of life, Body Mass Index, waist and hip circumference, VO2max, strength and flexibility were assessed at the start and at the end of the study in both groups. RESULTS On a total of 82 patients enrolled, follow-up measures were obtained from 28 (85.7% females, mean age 38.2±8.7) and 42 (71.4% females, mean age 40.2±9.5) patients included in the intervention and control group, respectively. All the behavioral and physical outcomes improved significantly in the participants to the intervention, while the control group showed lesser changes, especially regarding quality of life and physical fitness. CONCLUSIONS Notwithstanding the self-selection, these results suggest that a timely postoperative behavioral multidisciplinary program for bariatric patients may be effective in establishing healthy behaviors which can lead to better surgery outcomes.
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Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Its Association with Body Composition and Physical Fitness in Spanish University Students.
Cobo-Cuenca, AI, Garrido-Miguel, M, Soriano-Cano, A, Ferri-Morales, A, Martínez-Vizcaíno, V, Martín-Espinosa, NM
Nutrients. 2019;11(11)
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The Mediterranean diet (MD) represents a dietary pattern that incorporates healthy traditional eating habits which includes high consumption of vegetables, fruit, legumes, nuts, beans, whole grains, fish, and unsaturated fats, and low consumption of red meat and dairy products. The Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS-14 items) is a valid instrument for the estimation of adherence to the MD. The objectives of this study were to: 1. Estimate the prevalence of the adherence to the MD 2. Assess the association of adherence to the MD with physical fitness and body composition 3. Know the ability of each MEDAS item in the same sample to predict MD adherence. This study is a cross-sectional observational study which was performed with 310 first-year Spanish university students, aged between 18 and 30 years. Results indicate low prevalence of good adherence to the MD; and the participants with good adherence had high protein and low-fat intake compared to those with medium to low adherence. Furthermore, higher levels of physical fitness were also noticed amongst participants with good adherence to the MD. Twelve of the 14 items of the MEDAS score were associated with a high adherence to the MD. Authors conclude that MD adherence benefits both cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness amongst young adults.
Abstract
The aims of this study were to assess the association of adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) with physical fitness and body composition in Spanish university students and to determine the ability to predict the MD adherence of each Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS) item. A cross-sectional study was performed involving 310 first-year university students. Adherence to the MD was evaluated with MEDAS-14 items. Anthropometric variables, body composition, and physical fitness were assessed. Muscle strength was determined based on handgrip strength and the standing long jump test. Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) was measured using the Course-Navette test. Only 24% of the university students had good adherence to the MD. The ANCOVA models showed a significant difference between participants with high adherence to the MD and those with medium and low adherence in CRF (p = 0.017) and dynamometry (p = 0.005). Logistic binary regression showed that consuming >2 vegetables/day (OR = 20.1; CI: 10.1-30.1; p < 0.001), using olive oil (OR = 10.6; CI: 1.4-19.8; p = 0.021), consuming <3 commercial sweets/week (OR = 10.1; IC: 5.1-19.7; p < 0.001), and consuming ≥3 fruits/day (OR = 8.8; CI: 4.9-15.7; p < 0.001) were the items most associated with high adherence to the MD. In conclusion, a high level of adherence to the MD is associated with high-level muscular fitness and CRF in Spanish university students.