Association of Normal Weight Obesity with Dietary Habits Among Young Adults in Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Normal weight obesity (NWO) is a syndrome identified in normal weight subjects (BMI <25 kg/m2) in whom fat stores are above the recommendations, as per WHO definitions (>20% for men and >30% for women). These individuals might be characterized by insulin resistance, as well as by hypertriglyceridemia and high blood pressure despite having a body mass index (BMI) < 25 kg/m2. The results of several studies have confirmed the relationship between an unhealthy diet and the occurrence of normal weight obesity, whereas “healthy” dietary patterns oppose its occurrence. The objectives of this study were to determine the frequency of Normal weight obesity in targeted population and to determine its association with dietary habits. Methods: It was a Cross-sectional study conducted on 125 young adults (15-24 years). The sample was taken from Rashid Latif Medical College, Lahore via convenient sampling. The data was collected using a questionnaire which included anthropometric data and dietary history. The body fat percentage of participants was calculated using the Deurenberg equation. Dietary history was collected using a food frequency chart. Data was analyzed using SPSS software version 25. Results: Frequency of Normal weight obesity among individual with healthy body mass index was 28.8% i.e. consumption of white rice/bread, starchy vegetables, flavored milk, cheese, junk food and confectionary was excessive among participants with normal weight obesity. Conclusion: Study concluded a positive association (p-value <0.05) between healthy dietary habits and body fat status.