Effect of Nutritional Counseling on Nutritional Status of Overweight/Obese Women

Abstract

A longitudinal study was conducted  in Kamra District Attock,  to  evaluate the effect of nutritional intervention in changing the life style of women.  Our sample of 200 overweight/obese women (BMI >25, free from chronic diseases, non pregnant/lactating women , age >20 years) were randomly assigned  into two groups, intervention (n=100) and non-intervention(n=100).Interventional group received nutritional counseling sessions  for six month aimed to improve the physical activity, increase the intake of fruits,  vegetables and  decrease  saturated fats   . Data on demographic, socioeconomic status, anthropometric , health measurements (body weight, body mass index, waist to hip ratio, random blood glucose, blood pressure ) dietary habits and physical activity level were assessed  at baseline, 3 month, 6 month and at 12 month(follow up) in both groups. After 6 month of follow up it was observed that health parameters and anthropometric measurements were significantly reduced among the individuals in the intervention group.  Moreover, there was significantly increase in intake of fruits , vegetables, fiber and decrease in the caloric intake(P<0.05) which help in weight loss. Due to intervention there was significant  improvement in life style of women, MET min/week was 1167.4 at 12 month (follow-up) which was greater than recommended 600min/week(P<0.05). Nutritional counseling programmes had beneficial effect on body composition, dietary habits and physical activity which lead to long term weight loss.

Keywords: obesity, physical activity, dietary guidelines, weight loss, nutritional counseling