Abstract

COSTA, Priscila Ribas de Farias et al. Change in anthropometric parameters: the impact of a nutritional intervention program and physical exercise on adult women. Cad. Saúde Pública [online]. 2009, vol.25, n.8, pp. 1763-1773. ISSN 0102-311X.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0102-311X2009000800012.

Obesity prevalence is increasing worldwide, with inadequate nutrition and physical inactivity as the main risk factors. The objective was to evaluate the impact of a nutritional intervention and physical activity program on body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) in adult women. This quasi-experimental study, lasting 12 months, enrolled 69 adult women that reported physical activity three times a week, besides receiving nutritional counseling and lectures on healthy living, evaluated at baseline and at 6 and 12 months of follow-up. Lower levels of physical activity and higher intake of high-risk foods were associated with a 2.28cm increase in mean WC, has compared to higher physical activity and lower intake of high-risk foods (p < 0.01). Lower levels of physical activity associated with high intake of protective foods increased the mean BMI by 0.68kg/m², as compared to higher physical activity and high intake of protective foods. The intervention was positively associated with the target parameters.

Keywords : Obesity; Anthropometry; Exercise; Women's Health.