Impact of a Telenutrition Intervention on Body Composition and Eating Behaviour Changes in Individuals Living with Excess Weight

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity is a serious health problem and according to a 2019 survey, 60.3% and 26.8% of Brazilians are living with excess weight and obesity, respectively. The present study aimed to assess anthropometric and body composition changes associated with behaviour change in individuals living with excess weight participating in a telenutrition education programme. Methods: Longitudinal, retrospective study that assessed the impact of an intervention conducted from August 2017 to November 2019. The 6-month programme included seven online consultations and three face-to-face consultations (baseline; 3 months and 6 months). Dietary, anthropometric and body composition (using bioelectrical analysis) assessments were performed at the face-to-face consultations. Patients received nutritional advice and were remotely managed by video conference with the use of motivational and educational tools encouraging lifestyle and eating behaviour changes. Results: The study sample comprised 93 adults and elderly patients living with excess weight (61 female and 32 male) who consented to participate in the study. Age ranged from 23 to 73 years (mean 45.7±11.8 years). The results indicated a significant improvement in weight loss, BMI, waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio and body fat at the end of the study in comparison with baseline values. There was a significant association between weight loss and eating behaviour changes, including decreased consumption of sugar, sweets and industrialized foods and an improved relationship with food. Conclusions: The telenutrition programme was associated with weight loss and improvement in anthropometric indices and body composition. Besides, it encouraged eating behavior changes that contributed to a better dietary quality.