Abstract 13134: Weight Neutral Intervention Improves Metabolic Syndrome Status in Family Caregivers

Abstract

Introduction: Weight neutral approaches to obesity management may be more effective than traditional weight loss programs. Weight neutral approaches include self-esteem improvement, intuitive eating, and sustainable physical activity (PA) and can reduce cardiometabolic markers without significant weight loss. Hypothesis: We hypothesize that psychoeducation plus exercise intervention will improve cardiometabolic biomarkers related to metabolic syndrome (MetS). Methods: This secondary data analysis from a randomized controlled intervention trial of sedentary family care givers aimed to improve perceptions of caregiving and physical function. A subgroup of the original trial was studied: the psychoeducation group (PE) and psychoeducation plus exercise (PE+EX) groups and those that had blood glucose above 90 ng/dL. The PE group received printed and video instructions of stretching and a 4-week self-care intervention. The PE+EX group received the same plus a 12-week aerobic and resistance PA program. Measurements were at baseline (BL) and 6 months. Univariate comparisons between treatment groups at 6 months were reported. Results: Participants (n=74) had a mean age of 57 years, 87% female, 74% Black, 69% were college educated, mean body mass index (BMI) of 32.3 kg/m2 at BL which did not change significantly by 6m (BMI 32.1, paired t-test p=0.186). Of the 23 that had MetS at baseline in the PE group, 13 (57%) no longer had MetS at 6 months and 2 (13%) worsened. In the PE+Ex group, 12 of the 18 (68%) no longer had MetS at 6 months and 3 (17%) worsened. Overall, there was a positive change in MetS status between BL and 6 months (McNemar’s p<0.001). Of all MetS components, waist circumference (WC) showed significant improvement (14.8% with at risk waist circumference improved, p=0.021). Overall, 39 of 74 (53%) decreased their MetS risk by 1-3 factors from BL to 6 months (Wilcoxon, p<0.001). There was no significant difference between the groups (p=0.358). Conclusions: We conclude that a psychoeducation intervention either alone or with an exercise component showed improvement in MetS status. Future studies should design weight neutral interventions with the intent on changing behavior around diet and exercise combined.