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The effectiveness of interventions during the first 1,000 days to improve energy balance-related behaviors or prevent overweight/obesity in children from socio-economically disadvantaged families of high-income countries: a systematic review.
Lioret, S, Harrar, F, Boccia, D, Hesketh, KD, Kuswara, K, Van Baaren, C, Maritano, S, Charles, MA, Heude, B, Laws, R
Obesity reviews : an official journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity. 2023;24(1):e13524
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The first 1,000 days is an opportune time to support parents, as primary caregivers and role model, to promote a healthy lifestyle and prevent obesity for their children. The aim of this study was to update the current evidence on the effectiveness of family-based interventions implemented during pregnancy and up to 2 years of age to improve energy balance-related behaviours and growth, or prevent overweight (OW)/ obesity (OB), in children growing up in families experiencing socio-economic disadvantage. This study is a systematic review of thirty-three studies which corresponded to 24 distinct interventions. Of the 24 interventions, nearly all were (cluster) randomised controlled trials; three had a quasi-experimental design. Results show that there is some effectiveness on behavioural and anthropometric outcomes in young children when programmes target and are tailored to families experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage. Authors conclude that a holistic, multilevel and proportionate interventions are likely to more effective and sustainably address the issue of social inequalities and inequities. Additionally, more thorough process evaluation of such complex interventions using mixed methods is needed to better understand why interventions worked or not, by which mechanisms of action (if any), for whom and in which context.
Abstract
This narrative systematic review examined effectiveness of interventions during pregnancy and up to 2 years of age in improving energy balance-related behaviors or prevent overweight/obesity in children from families experiencing socio-economic disadvantage. We identified 24 interventions, from 33 articles, since 1990. Overall, despite their heterogeneity and variability in internal and external validity, there was some evidence of beneficial impact of interventions on obesity risk (4/15), and associated behaviors, e.g.: breastfeeding (9/18), responsive feeding (11/16), diet (7/8), sedentary (1/3) and movement (4/7) behaviors, and sleep (1/2). The most effective interventions aimed at promoting breastfeeding commenced antenatally; this was similar for the prevention of obesity, provided the intervention continued for at least 2 years postnatally and was multi-behavioral. Effective interventions were more likely to target first-time mothers and involve professional delivery agents, multidisciplinary teams and peer groups. Among ethnic/racial minorities, interventions delivered by lay agents had some impact on dietary behavior but not weight outcomes. Co-creation with stakeholders, including parents, and adherence to theoretical frameworks were additional ingredients for more pragmatic, inclusive, non-judgmental, and effective programs. The growing body of evidence on obesity prevention interventions targeting families experiencing socio-economic disadvantage is promising for reducing early inequalities in obesity risk.
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The efficacy of morning versus evening exercise for weight loss: A randomized controlled trial.
Brooker, PG, Gomersall, SR, King, NA, Leveritt, MD
Obesity (Silver Spring, Md.). 2023;31(1):83-95
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Despite considerable efforts to promote a healthy lifestyle, rates of overweight and obesity are continuing to rise worldwide, and obesity is now considered a pandemic. Although dietary intervention is the most effective lifestyle intervention for weight loss, exercise plays an important role in weight management. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of a 12-week exercise programme, performed in either the morning or evening, on weight loss, cardiometabolic health risk factors, and components of energy balance in inactive adults with overweight and obesity. This study is a three-armed randomised controlled trial. Participants allocated to the two intervention conditions were prescribed 250 minutes per week of self-paced aerobic (treadmill-based) exercise for 12 weeks. Results show that there was no compelling evidence to support or encourage exercise exclusively at a particular time of day for weight loss. However, there were improvements in cardiometabolic health, such as weight reduction and increased cardiorespiratory fitness, increased levels of physical activity, and positive changes to dietary intake in both intervention groups. Following the intervention, both exercise groups continued to lose weight, and the improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness were sustained. Authors conclude that consistent reporting of time of day of exercise interventions among high-quality studies would significantly contribute to the literature and provide critical insight into the relative importance (or lack thereof) of prescribing exercise at a particular time of day.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of morning versus evening exercise on weight loss, cardiometabolic health, and components of energy balance. METHODS A total of 100 inactive adults with overweight or obesity were randomized to morning exercise (AMEx; 06:00-09:00), evening exercise (PMEx; 16:00-19:00), or wait-list control (CON). AMEx and PMEx were prescribed 250 min·wk-1 of self-paced aerobic exercise for 12 weeks. Anthropometry and body composition, physical activity, and dietary intake were assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. Cardiorespiratory fitness (V̇O2 peak), resting metabolic rate, and blood markers were assessed at baseline and 12 weeks. Body composition and V̇O2 peak were also measured at 3- and 6-month follow-up. RESULTS AMEx and PMEx lost weight during the intervention (mean [SD], AMEx, -2.7 [2.5] kg, p < 0.001; PMEx, -3.1 [3.4] kg, p < 0.001). V̇O2 peak significantly increased in both intervention groups, and these changes were different from CON (AMEx, +4.7 mL·kg-1 ·min-1 , p = 0.034; PMEx, +4.2 mL·kg-1 ·min-1 , p = 0.045). There were no between-group differences for resting metabolic rate or physical activity. At 12 weeks, total energy intake was significantly reduced in both AMEx and PMEx versus CON (AMEx, -3974 kJ, p < 0.001; PMEx, -3165 kJ, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Adults with overweight and obesity experience modest weight loss in response to an exercise program, but there does not appear to be an optimal time to exercise.
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Are dietary intake and nutritional status of specific polyunsaturated fatty acids correlated with sarcopenia outcomes in community-dwelling older adults with sarcopenia? - Exploratory results from ENHANce.
Dupont, J, Wauters, E, Dedeyne, L, Vercauteren, L, Amini, N, Lapauw, L, Matthys, C, Verschueren, S, Tournoy, J, Koppo, K, et al
BMC geriatrics. 2023;23(1):272
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Diet plays an important role in the development and treatment of sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and function. Besides protein intake, the intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) is also suggested to influence muscle physiology and sarcopenia progression. The aim of this study was to assess the dietary intake of PUFAs and PUFAs status in a sample of well-defined sarcopenic older adults. This study was a secondary, exploratory, cross-sectional analysis of 29 older adults (aged 65 years or older) with sarcopenia. Results showed that omega-3 PUFAs intake was low in older adults with sarcopenia. Moreover, PUFAs intake and status did not correspond well in this population. Authors concluded that intake or status of omega-3 was positively associated with measures of sarcopenia, whereas intake of omega-6 was negatively associated.
Abstract
AIMS: To explore the relationship between dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) intake, nutritional PUFAs status and sarcopenia outcomes in sarcopenic older adults. METHODS The Exercise and Nutrition for Healthy AgeiNg (ENHANce) is an ongoing 5-armed triple blinded randomized controlled trial, in sarcopenic older adults (> 65y) aiming to assess the effect of combined anabolic interventions (protein, omega-3 supplement and exercise) on physical performance in these adults, compared to single/placebo interventions. Baseline data were used for a secondary, exploratory, cross-sectional analysis. Dietary PUFAs intake was assessed with 4-day food records, status with RBC membrane fatty acids profiles. Spearman's rho(ρ) correlation coefficients were calculated to explore associations of PUFAs intake and status with sarcopenia-defining parameters (muscle strength, mass and physical performance), physical activity (step count) and quality of life (SF-36, SarQoL). RESULTS In total, 29 subjects (9♂/20♀, mean age 76.3 ± 5.4y) were included. Total omega-3 intake of participants (1.99 ± 0.99 g/d) was below the recommended intake (♂:2.8-5.6 g/d; ♀:2.2-4.4 g/d). Intake and status of PUFAs were not correlated. Regarding correlations with outcomes, α-linolenic acid status was inversely associated with appendicular lean mass (aLM) (ρ:-0.439; p = 0.017), whereas docosahexaenoic acid status was positively associated with aLM (ρ:0.388; p = 0.038). Some omega-3 PUFAs intake and status markers were positively associated with step count, SF-36 and SarQoL scores, whereas gamma-linolenic acid status was inversely associated with SF-36 physical component summary score (ρ = -0.426; p = 0.024). CONCLUSIONS Although intake of omega-3 and omega-6 was low, the present exploratory study generated new hypotheses for potential correlations of PUFAs intake and status with sarcopenia outcomes in older adults with sarcopenia.
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Are inflammatory markers associated with sarcopenia-related traits in older adults with sarcopenia? - A cross-sectional analysis of the ENHANce study.
Dupont, J, Vercauteren, L, Amini, N, Lapauw, L, De Schaepdryver, M, Poesen, K, Dedeyne, L, Verschueren, S, Tournoy, J, Koppo, K, et al
Experimental gerontology. 2023;178:112196
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Sarcopenia is a muscle disease, characterised by loss of muscle mass and function, leading to ‘muscle failure’. Primary sarcopenia is age-driven and one of the major mechanisms behind the onset and progression of sarcopenia is the chronic low grade inflammatory state related with ageing, the so-called ‘Inflammageing’. The aim of this study was to explore the levels of inflammatory markers (CRP, albumin, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α) in older adults with sarcopenia. This study was an exploratory, secondary, cross-sectional analysis. In total, 40 older adults (15 men and 25 women) with probable, confirmed, or severe sarcopenia were included. Results showed subclinical low levels of inflammatory markers in older adults suffering from sarcopenia, compatible with age-related Inflammageing. Positive associations were found between the examined inflammatory markers and sarcopenia-related traits. Furthermore, gender had a significant influence on the associations between these inflammatory markers and sarcopenia-related traits. Authors concluded that their findings stress the complexity of the inflammageing-sarcopenia interplay and the importance of not only looking at muscle mass or the sarcopenia construct when researching sarcopenia, but also considering other sarcopenia-related traits and gender in future research.
Abstract
AIMS: To explore the relationship between inflammatory markers and sarcopenia-related traits in sarcopenic older adults. METHODS Baseline data of the ongoing Exercise and Nutrition for Healthy AgeiNg (ENHANce) study were used for a secondary, exploratory, cross-sectional analysis. ENHANce is a 5-armed triple blinded randomized controlled trial, in older adults (>65y) with sarcopenia defined according to the revised criteria of the European Working Group of Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2) aiming to assess the effect of combined anabolic interventions (protein supplement, omega-3 supplement and physical exercise) on physical performance, compared to single/placebo interventions. Inflammatory markers C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), albumin, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-8, and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were assessed at baseline. Spearman's rho (ρ) correlation coefficients were calculated to associate these inflammatory markers with baseline sarcopenia-defining parameters (handgrip strength, chair stand test, appendicular lean mass [aLM], gait speed, Short Physical Performance Battery), physical activity (step count) and quality of life (SF-36, SarQoL). RESULTS We included 40 sarcopenic subjects (15 men/25 women, age 77.1 ± 6.8 years). Contrary to expectations, the pro-inflammatory IL-1β correlated positively with handgrip strength (ρ: 0.376; p = 0.024) and IL-6 with aLM (ρ: 0.334; p = 0.0433). IL-6 inversely correlated with step count (ρ:-0.358; p = 0.048). Subgroup analysis revealed important gender differences. IL-8 inversely correlated with handgrip strength in women (ρ: -0.425; p = 0.034) but not in men. In contrast, pro-inflammatory cytokines CRP (ρ: -0.615; p = 0.019), IL-6 (ρ: -0.604; p = 0.029) and TNF-α (ρ: -0.615; p = 0.025) inversely correlated with the SF-36 physical component score in men but not in women. CONCLUSION Although Inflammageing might play a role in sarcopenia-related traits, this exploratory study highlights an important role of gender. Future research should take this into account when elucidating the Inflammageing-sarcopenia interplay.
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Effects of inulin supplementation on body composition and metabolic outcomes in children with obesity.
Visuthranukul, C, Chamni, S, Kwanbunbumpen, T, Saengpanit, P, Chongpison, Y, Tepaamorndech, S, Panichsillaphakit, E, Uaariyapanichkul, J, Nonpat, N, Chomtho, S
Scientific reports. 2022;12(1):13014
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The prevalence of overweight and obesity among children and adolescents has risen dramatically. Overweight and obese children are at risk of developing co-morbidities such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, metabolic syndrome, non-alcohol fatty liver disease and premature cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, obese children are highly prone to become obese adults. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of prebiotic (as inulin) supplementation on body weight, adiposity, and metabolic profiles in obese Thai children. This study is a randomised double-blinded placebo-controlled trial. Participants (n=165) were randomly allocated to 3 groups: inulin, placebo, and dietary fibre advice group. Results show that the intensive behavioural modification and frequent follow-up are effective strategies to reduce body mass index and adiposity in obese children. Furthermore, even though inulin supplementation did not demonstrate considerable effect on adiposity and metabolic outcomes, it can increase fat-free mass in these children. Authors conclude that further research regarding the change of gut microbiota composition and their metabolites are needed to determine inulin’s impact on host microbe interaction in obese paediatric population.
Abstract
Inulin might improve body composition in obese children. We aimed to determine the effects of inulin supplementation on body composition and metabolic outcomes in obese children. A randomized, double-blinded placebo-controlled study was conducted in obese Thai children aged 7-15 years. Participants were assigned to 3 treatment groups for 6 months: 13 g of extracted inulin powder from Thai Jerusalem artichoke, isocaloric maltodextrin, and dietary fiber advice groups. Body composition was assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis. One-hundred and fifty-five children completed the study (mean age 10.4 ± 2.2 years, BMI z-score 3.2 ± 1.0, 59% male). The drop-out rate was 6%. The inulin extract yielded more than 90% compliance without significant gastrointestinal side effects. All three groups demonstrated a significant decrease in BMI z-score, fat mass index (FMI), and trunk FMI, but the differences between groups were not observed. Fat-free mass index significantly increased only in the inulin group (16.18 ± 1.90 vs. 16.38 ± 1.98 kg/m2, P = 0.009). There were no significant differences in the metabolic profiles between groups. Despite showing no substantial effect on adiposity, inulin may increase fat-free mass in obese children. Further research in the change of gut microbiota composition is needed to determine inulin's impact on host-microbe interaction in pediatric obesity.
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Lifestyle risk behaviours among adolescents: a two-year longitudinal study of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gardner, LA, Debenham, J, Newton, NC, Chapman, C, Wylie, FE, Osman, B, Teesson, M, Champion, KE
BMJ open. 2022;12(6):e060309
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The global spread of COVID-19 and subsequent lockdown measures have presented challenges worldwide. Previous research has highlighted the importance of six key lifestyle behaviours, including diet, physical activity, sleep, sedentary behaviour (including recreational screen time), alcohol use and smoking—collectively referred to as the ‘Big 6’—for the short-term and long-term health of adolescents. The aim of this study was to examine changes in the prevalence of six key chronic disease risk factors from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic, and also to explore whether differences over time are associated with gender and lockdown status. This study is a prospective cohort study among a large and geographically diverse sample of adolescents. The sample included 983 students (girls = 54.8%) from 22 schools. Results show that: - over the 2-year period, the prevalence of excessive recreational screen time, insufficient fruit intake and alcohol and tobacco use increased. - alcohol use increased more among girls compared to boys. - the prevalence of insufficient sleep reduced in the overall sample; yet, increased among girls. - being in lockdown was associated with improvements in sugar-sweetened beverages consumption and discretionary food intake. Authors conclude that supporting young people to improve or maintain their health behaviours, regardless of the course of the pandemic, is important, alongside targeted research and intervention efforts to support groups that may be disproportionately impacted, such as adolescent girls.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine changes in the prevalence of six key chronic disease risk factors (the "Big 6"), from before (2019) to during (2021) the COVID-19 pandemic, among a large and geographically diverse sample of adolescents, and whether differences over time are associated with lockdown status and gender. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Three Australian states (New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia) spanning over 3000 km. PARTICIPANTS 983 adolescents (baseline Mage=12.6, SD=0.5, 54.8% girl) drawn from the control group of the Health4Life Study. PRIMARY OUTCOMES The prevalence of physical inactivity, poor diet (insufficient fruit and vegetable intake, high sugar-sweetened beverage intake, high discretionary food intake), poor sleep, excessive recreational screen time, alcohol use and tobacco use. RESULTS The prevalence of excessive recreational screen time (prevalence ratios (PR)=1.06, 95% CI=1.03 to 1.11), insufficient fruit intake (PR=1.50, 95% CI=1.26 to 1.79), and alcohol (PR=4.34, 95% CI=2.82 to 6.67) and tobacco use (PR=4.05 95% CI=1.86 to 8.84) increased over the 2-year period, with alcohol use increasing more among girls (PR=2.34, 95% CI=1.19 to 4.62). The prevalence of insufficient sleep declined across the full sample (PR=0.74, 95% CI=0.68 to 0.81); however, increased among girls (PR=1.24, 95% CI=1.10 to 1.41). The prevalence of high sugar-sweetened beverage (PR=0.61, 95% CI=0.64 to 0.83) and discretionary food consumption (PR=0.73, 95% CI=0.64 to 0.83) reduced among those subjected to stay-at-home orders, compared with those not in lockdown. CONCLUSION Lifestyle risk behaviours, particularly excessive recreational screen time, poor diet, physical inactivity and poor sleep, are prevalent among adolescents. Young people must be supported to find ways to improve or maintain their health, regardless of the course of the pandemic. Targeted approaches to support groups that may be disproportionately impacted, such as adolescent girls, are needed. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12619000431123).
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Consuming a Protein and Fiber-Based Supplement Preload Promotes Weight Loss and Alters Metabolic Markers in Overweight Adults in a 12-Week, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
Glynn, EL, Fleming, SA, Edwards, CG, Wilson, MJ, Evans, M, Leidy, HJ
The Journal of nutrition. 2022;152(6):1415-1425
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One of the challenges of reduced-calorie diets is the inability to control appetite. Reductions in food intake can lead to the activation of neurological pathways that increase hunger and food cravings. Adjusting nutrient intake has the potential to serve as an effective strategy for increasing feelings of satiety, which can lead to improved appetite control. The aim of this study was to determine if greater weight loss and greater changes in body composition and metabolic outcomes could be achieved following a 12-wk energy-restricted diet that included twice-daily consumption of a protein and fibre-based multi-ingredient nutritional supplement shake (HPF) compared with an isocaloric low-protein/lower-fibre placebo (LPF) in adults with overweight and obesity. This study is a double-blind randomised placebo-controlled study. Two hundred and six healthy adults were recruited and randomly assigned to intervention groups in a 1:1 ratio. Results show that the habitual consumption of an HPF preload 30 min before breakfast and lunch resulted in greater weight loss compared with an isocaloric LPF preload in overweight/obese adults. In addition, improved metabolic outcomes were observed in the HPF group throughout the 84-d randomized controlled trial. Authors conclude that diet composition rather than energy reduction alone may influence the success of a weight-loss regimen, potentially including protein and fibre content.
Abstract
BACKGROUND Higher protein and fiber diets promote weight management and metabolic health. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine if greater weight loss and positive changes in metabolic outcomes could be achieved with twice-daily consumption of a high-protein and fiber-based multi-ingredient nutritional shake (HPF) compared with an isocaloric low-protein, lower fiber-based placebo (LPF). METHODS Study procedures were conducted by an independent research organization under clinicaltrials.gov registration NCT03057873. Healthy overweight and obese adults [n = 206; BMI (kg/m2): 27-35; 70% female] were randomly assigned to HPF or LPF. All participants were prescribed an energy-restricted diet (500 kcal/d less than energy needs) and consumed a HPF (17 g protein, 6 g fiber) or LPF (1 g protein, 3 g fiber) shake 30 min before breakfast and lunch for 12 wk. Primary outcomes included body weight and total body fat percentage. Blood samples were collected at days (D) 0, 28, 56, and 84 for secondary analyses related to metabolic markers of health. RESULTS Although weight loss occurred in both groups, HPF had greater weight loss at D84 compared with LPF (-3.3 kg vs. -1.8 kg, P < 0.05). Percentage body fat decreased in both groups (HPF: -1.33%, LPF: -1.09%; P < 0.001) with no differences between groups. Serum total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and oxidized LDL decreased between -5.1% to -8.3%, whereas adiponectin increased over time in both groups; these changes occurred to a greater extent in HPF compared with LPF (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS A multi-ingredient HPF nutritional supplement shake consumed as a preload before breakfast and lunch positively influenced weight management and metabolic outcomes in overweight adults compared with an LPF placebo. These findings suggest that specific nutrient factors (i.e., potentially including protein, fiber, and bioactive content) other than calorie reduction alone influence the success of a weight-loss regimen. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03057873.
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The effect of high-polyphenol Mediterranean diet on visceral adiposity: the DIRECT PLUS randomized controlled trial.
Zelicha, H, Kloting, N, Kaplan, A, Yaskolka Meir, A, Rinott, E, Tsaban, G, Chassidim, Y, Bluher, M, Ceglarek, U, Isermann, B, et al
BMC medicine. 2022;20(1):327
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Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) accumulation is one of the main key factors that differentiate between metabolic healthy and unhealthy obese individuals. VAT is closely related to the development of multiple cardiovascular risk factors. The Mediterranean (MED) diet, high in polyphenol content and rich in plant food sources, was shown to have an enhanced effect on VAT reduction in combination with physical activity (PA), regardless of weight loss The aim of this study was to assess the effect of the MED diet, further enriched with polyphenols, and lower in red and processed meat (“green-MED diet”) on visceral adiposity in the 18-month Dietary Intervention Randomized Controlled Trial-Polyphenols, Unprocessed trial. This study is a randomised controlled trial. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three intervention groups (1:1:1 ratio): healthy dietary guidelines, MED diet, or green-MED diet, all included PA recommendations, with a free gym membership and educational sessions promoting moderate-intensity PA. Results show that participants following the green-MED diet achieved more than twice the degree of VAT reduction compared to those following the MED diet, despite similar weight loss. In fact, VAT loss was specifically related to lower red meat intake and increased walnuts, green tea, Wolfa globosa, and dietary fibre (this was reflected by higher plasma polyphenol and serum folate levels). Authors conclude that a green-MED diet enriched with polyphenols and decreased red meat consumption might serve as an improved version of the MED diet for targeted VAT reduction.
Expert Review
Conflicts of interest:
None
Take Home Message:
- The positive health effects of the traditional MED diet, moderately high in PUFAs and MUFAs and low in red meat, are well-established
- Higher levels of total plasma polyphenol and serum folate may reflect higher consumption of “green” dietary components, which were significantly associated with greater VAT loss
- The green-MED diet, richer in dietary polyphenols and green plant-based proteins and lower in red meat, might be a more effective strategy for VAT loss than the traditional healthy MED diet, achieving more than twice the degree of VAT reduction, despite similar weight loss.
- VAT loss was specifically related to lower red meat intake and increased walnuts, green tea, Wolffia globosa, and dietary fibre and was reflected by higher plasma polyphenol and serum folate levels.
Evidence Category:
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A: Meta-analyses, position-stands, randomized-controlled trials (RCTs)
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B: Systematic reviews including RCTs of limited number
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C: Non-randomized trials, observational studies, narrative reviews
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D: Case-reports, evidence-based clinical findings
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E: Opinion piece, other
Summary Review:
A mediterranean (MED) diet is a rich source of polyphenols, which benefit adiposity by several mechanisms. Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) accumulation is one of the main factors that differentiate between metabolic healthy and unhealthy obese individuals.
In this Dietary Intervention Randomised Controlled Trial PoLyphenols UnproceSsed (DIRECT‐ PLUS) weight‐loss trial, 294 participants were randomised to: (A) healthy dietary guidelines (HDG), (B) MED, or (C) green‐MED diets, all combined with physical activity. The study duration was 18‐months.
This study explored the effect of the green‐MED diet, twice fortified in dietary polyphenols and lower in red/processed meat, on visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to quantify the abdominal adipose tissues.
Both isocaloric (with the same calorific value) MED groups consumed 28 g/day of walnuts (+ 440 mg/day polyphenols). The green‐MED group further consumed green tea (3–4 cups/day) and Wolffia globosa (duckweed strain) plant green shake (100 g frozen cubes/day) (+ 800mg/day polyphenols) and reduced red meat intake.
The mean weight loss (HDG: −0.4% (5.0), MED: −2.7% (5.6), green-MED: −3.9% (6.5)) and WC loss (HDG: −3.6% (5.1), MED: −4.7% (5.0), green-MED: −5.7%(5.7)) after 18 months were similar between the two MED diets (p > 0.05 for all) and higher as compared to the HDG (weight: HDG vs. MED: p = 0.02; HDG vs. green+MED: p < 0.001; WC: HDG vs. MED: p = 0.33, HDG vs. green+MED: p = 0.02).
All three abdominal fat depots decreased over 18 months of intervention (p < 0.05 vs. baseline for all). The green-MED group achieved a greater reduction in VAT than the other intervention groups (HDG: −4.2% (22.5), MED: −6.0%(31.3), green-MED: −14.1%(27.7); p < 0.05 green-MED vs. MED or vs. HDG groups). These differences in VAT loss across the groups remained significant after adjusting for age, sex, and 18-month WC change (green-MED vs. MED p = 0.023; green-MED vs. HDG p = 0.002) (Fig. 1)
Limitations of the study included a low proportion of women, and different VAT proportions at baseline across groups limit the generalisability of findings to women.
The authors of the study did not identify the exact components responsible for the dietary effects when they compared dietary regimens and not specific nutrients.
Adherence was by a validated, self-reported dietary intake assessment tool, which the authors acknowledge is subject to error
Strengths of the study included the relatively large sample size, high retention rate, and use of 3-T MRI measurements (considered one of the gold standards tools for the quantification of specific fat depots
Clinical practice applications:
- This trial shows that, when combined with a Mediterranean diet, higher dietary consumption of green tea, walnuts, and dietary fibre and reduced red meat consumption were significantly associated with greater %VAT loss
- The authors observed a significant synergistic interaction effect between decreased red meat consumption and increased serum folate on VAT loss
- A reduction in VAT accumulation, known as a key risk factor in CVD development, may reduce metabolic complications, improve the lipid profile, and decrease cardiometabolic risk.
Considerations for future research:
- Future studies are needed to explore the exact mechanisms of specific polyphenol-rich foods on visceral adiposity.
- Future studies could explore whether the results are replicable in both male and female participants, as this sample was largely male.
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mediterranean (MED) diet is a rich source of polyphenols, which benefit adiposity by several mechanisms. We explored the effect of the green-MED diet, twice fortified in dietary polyphenols and lower in red/processed meat, on visceral adipose tissue (VAT). METHODS In the 18-month Dietary Intervention Randomized Controlled Trial PoLyphenols UnproceSsed (DIRECT-PLUS) weight-loss trial, 294 participants were randomized to (A) healthy dietary guidelines (HDG), (B) MED, or (C) green-MED diets, all combined with physical activity. Both isocaloric MED groups consumed 28 g/day of walnuts (+ 440 mg/day polyphenols). The green-MED group further consumed green tea (3-4 cups/day) and Wolffia globosa (duckweed strain) plant green shake (100 g frozen cubes/day) (+ 800mg/day polyphenols) and reduced red meat intake. We used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to quantify the abdominal adipose tissues. RESULTS Participants (age = 51 years; 88% men; body mass index = 31.2 kg/m2; 29% VAT) had an 89.8% retention rate and 79.3% completed eligible MRIs. While both MED diets reached similar moderate weight (MED: - 2.7%, green-MED: - 3.9%) and waist circumference (MED: - 4.7%, green-MED: - 5.7%) loss, the green-MED dieters doubled the VAT loss (HDG: - 4.2%, MED: - 6.0%, green-MED: - 14.1%; p < 0.05, independent of age, sex, waist circumference, or weight loss). Higher dietary consumption of green tea, walnuts, and Wolffia globosa; lower red meat intake; higher total plasma polyphenols (mainly hippuric acid), and elevated urine urolithin A polyphenol were significantly related to greater VAT loss (p < 0.05, multivariate models). CONCLUSIONS A green-MED diet, enriched with plant-based polyphenols and lower in red/processed meat, may be a potent intervention to promote visceral adiposity regression. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT03020186.
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Association of Antenatal Diet and Physical Activity-Based Interventions With Gestational Weight Gain and Pregnancy Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Teede, HJ, Bailey, C, Moran, LJ, Bahri Khomami, M, Enticott, J, Ranasinha, S, Rogozinska, E, Skouteris, H, Boyle, JA, Thangaratinam, S, et al
JAMA internal medicine. 2022;182(2):106-114
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With an obesogenic environment, unhealthy lifestyle, and accelerating weight gain, obesity is now the most common medical condition in the world. Preconception and pregnancy are priority life stages for healthy lifestyles and obesity prevention with excess weight being associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, long-term noncommunicable disease in women, and epigenetic consequences across generations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of different types of diet and physical activity–based antenatal lifestyle interventions with gestational weight gain (GWG) and maternal and neonatal outcomes. This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis of 28 studies together with 89 studies identified during a previous study. The included studies were randomised controlled trials (which involved 34 546 women) that examined diet (n = 14), physical activity (n = 53), diet with physical activity (n = 19), and mixed interventions (n = 31). Results show that compared with routine care, antenatal diet and physical activity–based lifestyle interventions were associated with reduced GWG. Lifestyle interventions were also associated with lower risk of gestational diabetes and total adverse maternal outcomes. Authors conclude by supporting the integration of structured diet and physical activity interventions alongside routine antenatal care, and the development of policies to improve the health of mothers and their offspring around the world.
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) is common and associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Antenatal lifestyle interventions limit GWG; yet benefits of different intervention types and specific maternal and neonatal outcomes are unclear. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association of different types of diet and physical activity-based antenatal lifestyle interventions with GWG and maternal and neonatal outcomes. DATA SOURCES A 2-stage systematic literature search of MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Health Technology Assessment Database was conducted from February 1, 2017, to May 31, 2020. Search results from the present study were integrated with those from a previous systematic review from 1990 to February 2017. STUDY SELECTION Randomized trials reporting GWG and maternal and neonatal outcomes. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Data were extracted for random-effects meta-analyses to calculate the summary effect estimates and 95% CIs. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Outcomes were clinically prioritized, with mean GWG as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, cesarean section, preterm delivery, large or small for gestational age neonates, neonatal intensive care unit admission, or fetal death. RESULTS A total of 117 randomized clinical trials of antenatal lifestyle interventions (involving 34 546 women) were included. Overall lifestyle intervention was associated with reduced GWG (-1.15 kg; 95% CI, -1.40 to -0.91), risk of gestational diabetes (odds ratio [OR], 0.79; 95% CI, 0.70-0.89), and total adverse maternal outcomes (OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.84-0.94) vs routine care. Compared with routine care, diet was associated with less GWG (-2.63 kg; 95% CI, -3.87 to -1.40) than physical activity (-1.04 kg; 95% CI, -1.33 to -0.74) or mixed interventions (eg, unstructured lifestyle support, written information with weight monitoring, or behavioral support alone) (-0.74 kg; 95% CI, -1.06 to -0.43). Diet was associated with reduced risk of gestational diabetes (OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.45-0.82), preterm delivery (OR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.22-0.84), large for gestational age neonate (OR, 0.19; 95% CI, 0.08-0.47), neonatal intensive care admission (OR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.48-0.95), and total adverse maternal (OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.61-0.92) and neonatal outcomes (OR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.26-0.72). Physical activity was associated with reduced GWG and reduced risk of gestational diabetes (OR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.47-0.75), hypertensive disorders (OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.48-0.90), cesarean section (OR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.75-0.95), and total adverse maternal outcomes (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.71-0.86). Diet with physical activity was associated with reduced GWG (-1.35 kg; 95% CI, -1.95 to -0.75) and reduced risk of gestational diabetes (OR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.54-0.96) and total adverse maternal outcomes (OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.69-0.95). Mixed interventions were associated with reduced GWG only. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This systematic review and meta-analysis found level 1 evidence that antenatal structured diet and physical activity-based lifestyle interventions were associated with reduced GWG and lower risk of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. The findings support the implementation of such interventions in routine antenatal care and policy around the world.
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Time-restricted eating and exercise training improve HbA1c and body composition in women with overweight/obesity: A randomized controlled trial.
Haganes, KL, Silva, CP, Eyjólfsdóttir, SK, Steen, S, Grindberg, M, Lydersen, S, Hawley, JA, Moholdt, T
Cell metabolism. 2022;34(10):1457-1471.e4
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Plain language summary
A healthy diet and regular physical activity are primary lifestyle strategies for the prevention and treatment of obesity and its associated conditions. However, poor adherence rates to these strategies limit their effectiveness. Time-restricted eating (TRE) is a popular dietary strategy that emphasises the timing of meals in alignment with diurnal circadian rhythms, permitting ad libitum energy intake during a restricted eating window (8–10 h between the first and last energy intake of the day). The aim of this study was to investigate the isolated and combined effects of TRE and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on glycaemic control and cardiometabolic health outcomes in women with overweight/obesity. This study is a 7-week randomised controlled trial with four parallel groups: TRE (energy intake limited to a %10-h eating window every day), HIIT (three supervised treadmill exercise sessions per week), a combination (TREHIIT), and a control group (CON, no intervention). Participants (n=131) were randomly assigned to one of the four groups. . Results show that 7 weeks of TRE, HIIT, or a combination failed to improve glycaemic control in reproductive-aged women with overweight/obesity. However, the combination of TRE and HIIT significantly reduced glycated haemoglobin levels compared with CON and induced greater losses in body weight, fat mass, and visceral fat area compared with either intervention alone. Isolated TRE resulted in lower nocturnal glucose concentrations compared with CON. Authors conclude that combining TRE with HIIT can rapidly induce several health benefits and decrease metabolic disease risk in women with overweight/obesity. In fact, the high rates of compliance and adherence shown in their findings, highlight the potential of these diet-exercise (TRE and HIIT) protocols to be implemented in clinical practice for treatment and primary prevention of overweight/ obesity.
Abstract
Diet modification and exercise training are primary lifestyle strategies for obesity management, but poor adherence rates limit their effectiveness. Time-restricted eating (TRE) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) improve cardiometabolic health in at-risk individuals, but whether these two interventions combined induce superior improvements in glycemic control than each individual intervention is not known. In this four-armed randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04019860), we determined the isolated and combined effects of 7 weeks of TRE (≤10-h daily eating window, with ad libitum energy intake) and HIIT (three exercise sessions per week), compared with a non-intervention control group, on glycemic control and secondary cardiometabolic outcomes in 131 women (36.2 ± 6.2 years) with overweight/obesity. There were no statistically significant effects after isolated TRE, HIIT, or a combination (TREHIIT) on glucose area under the curve during an oral glucose tolerance test (the primary outcome) compared with the control group (TRE, -26.3 mmol/L; 95% confidence interval [CI], -82.3 to 29.7, p = 0.36; HIIT, -53.8 mmol/L; 95% CI, -109.2 to 1.6, p = 0.057; TREHIIT, -41.3 mmol/L; 95% CI, -96.4 to 13.8, p = 0.14). However, TREHIIT improved HbA1c and induced superior reductions in total and visceral fat mass compared with TRE and HIIT alone. High participant adherence rates suggest that TRE, HIIT, and a combination thereof may be realistic diet-exercise strategies for improving markers of metabolic health in women at risk of cardiometabolic disease.