Relationship between Dietary Patterns and Central Obesity in Middle Aged Adults

Abstract

Background: An excess deposition of fat around abdominal area leads to central obesity; increases the risk of many chronic diseases. Dietary patterns, physical inactivity, gender, ethnicity, economic, social and cultural factors are its contributing aspects. Objective: To assess the frequency of central obesity among middle aged adults, and to determine the relationship between central obesity and dietary patterns among middle aged adults. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study; 154 middle aged adults were collected via convenient sampling technique. Questionnaire included questions about anthropometric measurement and dietary history, with a combination of both closed and open ended questions, lastly data was analyzed by using SPSS software version 25. Results: 54.6% middle aged adults in targeted sample had central obesity; individuals who consumed more refined products, red meat, saturated fats, junk food, and desserts were more centrally obese as compared to those who consumed whole grains, lean meat, fruits, vegetables and unsaturated fats. Conclusion: Study concluded that females had higher frequency of central obesity as compared to males. There was strong association between central obesity and unhealthy eating patterns among middle aged adults; thus a need to provide knowledge regarding the concept of balanced diet in relation to good health is a core need.