Abstract P132: Effectiveness of a Worksite Wellness Program on Dietary Intake, Adiposity, Exercise Performance, Insulin Sensitivity, and Lipids in Overweight Women

Abstract

Introduction The prevalence of obesity is increasing, especially among black women. Wellness programs have been proposed to prevent obesity-associated disease. Success of worksite programs in achieving weight loss and improving obesity-associated metabolic complications for women is widely variable. Hypothesis A program emphasizing reduced fat and energy intake in addition to exercise at the worksite can improve health measures in overweight female NIH employees, especially when provided with regular nutritional counseling. Methods One hundred overweight (BMI 25 to 57 kg/m2) women (59% black) were provided web-based nutritional information, then randomized to regular meetings and weigh-ins with a dietitian (intervention) or control; all were instructed to increase pedometer counts by 5000 over baseline and given access to a private fitness room. Three day food records, body composition (DXA), lipids, glucose, insulin, and treadmill exercise capacity were measured at baseline and 6 month visits. Results At 6 months, subjects reported decreased daily energy intake (-21%), total fat intake (-24%), and percent calories from fat (-6%), all p< 0.001. Significant reduction in weight, fat mass, and percent truncal fat was determined for all subjects, in addition to improvement in functional exercise capacity (Table). Subjects improved insulin sensitivity (HOMA), and showed reduction in cholesterol and triglyceride levels (Table). There were no significant differences between interventions vs. controls in outcome measures. Intervention subjects who attended > 80% of nutrition classes (n= 17) tended to lose more weight (-3.8 ± 4.4 vs. -1.3 ± 3.0 kg, p=0.06) and fat mass (-2.7 ± 3.9 vs. -1 ± 2.8 kg, p= 0.07), than women who attended less regularly (n=38). Conclusion Overweight female employees provided with web-based nutritional information and worksite exercise resources significantly improved health measures. Consistent attendance at nutrition counseling sessions may facilitate achievement of weight and fat loss.