SUN-546 18-Day Lifestyle Program Improves Metabolic Equivalent Measures, BMI, and Exercise Capacity Among Overweight and Obese Adults

Abstract

Introduction Various kinds of diets, workout programs, exist to lower one’s Body Mass Index (BMI), increase strength, and endurance. Metabolic Equivalent Measures (METS) is often used to measure exercise intensity1. A simple 18-day lifestyle program may be effective in raising METS, lowering BMI, and building endurance among overweight and obese adults. Methods Participants took part in an 18-day residential lifestyle program that encouraged daily outdoor exercise. Those with a BMI greater than 24.9kg/m2 were selected for this study. BMI, METS, and miles walked per day were measured at baseline and 14 days into the program. METS was measured using the Bruce Protocol while participants reported miles walked per day. Participants were given a walking goal of 5 miles per day. Participants ate 2 vegeterian meals a day that were low in sugar and fat but high in fiber. The program also encouraged moderate sunlight exposure, adequate water intake, sleep hygiene, and temperance. The program incorporated spiritual activities such as corporate prayer, spiritual contemplation, and hymn singing. A patient-doctor relationship was established and participants were consistently monitored. Results A total of n=627 participants were used in this study. METS increased from a baseline mean of 7.61 kcal/kg/hour to a final mean of 9.19 kcal/kg/hour. This is an increase of 1.58 kcal/kg/hour, ±1.26, with t(626)=-25.35 and p<0.001. BMI decreased from a baseline mean of 32.49 kg/m2 to a final mean of 31.39 kg/m2. This is a decrease of 1.094 kg/m2, ± 2.22, with t(626)=39.22 and p<0.001. Miles walked per day (MPD) increased from a baseline mean of 0.86 MPD to a final mean of 4.04 MPD. This is an increase of 3.18 MPD, ±2.01, with t(626)=-33.36 and p<0.001. Conclusion The program significantly improved METS, BMI, and physical endurance among the participants. This suggests that simple lifestyle changes are effective even among overweight and obese adults and should be encouraged by health professionals. Longitudinal studies are needed to examine these lifestyle effects outside of this program.