Healthy Body Composition Research Articles

Joint Associations of Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity and Sedentary Time with Adiposity and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Adolescents.

This study aims to explore the joint associations of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary time (ST) with adiposity and cardiometabolic risk factors in adolescents. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 309 participants (10-16 years old). Measurements included accelerometer-measured MVPA and ST, anthropometrics, body composition, and cardiometabolic risk factors. MVPA and ST were categorized as high or low based on median values (MVPA 27.7 min/day, ST 597.7 min/day). General Linear Models assessed associations of MVPA and ST with adiposity and cardiometabolic risk factors, adjusted for covariates. We observed significant inverse associations between MVPA and adiposity measures. Thus, participants in the Low MVPA category, compared to those in the High category, had higher BMI (2.23 units), z-BMI (0.43 units), waist circumference (6.1 cm), fat mass (4.6 kg), body fat (3.9%) and visceral fat (0.13 L), indicating that higher MVPA is linked to healthier body composition. No significant associations were found between ST and adiposity. MVPA was also negatively associated with some cardiometabolic risk factors, whereas ST showed no significant associations. This study highlights the need to prioritize increasing MVPA among adolescents to support healthy body composition and improve cardiometabolic health. Although ST did not show significant associations, it remains important to limit sedentary behaviors due to their potential contribution to negative health outcomes later in life.

Plant-based dietary patterns, nutrient intake, growth, and body composition in childhood: Results from a prospective population-based study.

Transitioning to more plant-based diets promotes environmental sustainability and has health benefits for adults. However, associations with nutrient intake adequacy and growth in children remain unknown. This study aimed to examine associations of plant-based diets with nutrient intake levels among children, and with longitudinal growth and body composition up to adolescence. We included 3340 children in the Generation R Study, a population-based cohort. Food and nutrient intake were assessed at the age of 8 years, and anthropometrics and body composition (using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) were measured at the ages of 10 and 13 years. Plant-based diets were quantified using three plant-based diet indices (PDIs): overall plant-based diet index (PDI), healthful PDI (hPDI), and unhealthful PDI (uPDI). Modified Poisson regression and linear mixed models were used to estimate the associations of PDIs with nutrient intake levels, and with sex- and age-standardized measures of anthropometrics and body composition. Higher scores on each of the three PDIs were associated with lower intake of vitamin B2, B12, and calcium, while higher hPDI score was associated with higher intake levels of fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, and copper. Higher hPDI score was also associated with higher fat-free mass index (FFMI) z-score (0.05 per 10-hPDI score increment, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.10), and with lower body fat percentage z-score (-0.05, 95% CI:-0.09,-0.01), while higher uPDI score was associated with lower height, weight, and FFMI z-score (FFMI:-0.08, 95% CI:-0.12,-0.03) up to age of 13 years. In this cohort study, higher adherence to healthful plant-based diets, rather than unhealthful ones, was associated with better nutrient intakes, and subsequent healthy body composition throughout childhood to adolescence. Our findings suggest that consuming healthful plant-based foods may contribute to children's diets' nutrient quality and subsequent body composition. Still, attention should be given to ensuring balanced and adequate nutrient intake for optimal plant-based eating.

Gender Differences in Dietary Patterns and Eating Behaviours in Individuals with Obesity.

Obesity is a global health problem with significant chronic disease risks. This study examined gender differences in eating behaviour, body composition, eating frequency and time of hunger in an Italian cohort with obesity (BMI ≥ 30) to inform gender-specific management strategies. A retrospective analysis of 720 adults (51.5% female, mean age 44.4 ± 13.8 years) assessed body composition and eating behaviour using principal component analysis (PCA) to classify eating profiles (structured, irregular, social and disordered/impulsive eaters). Males showed higher weight, abdominal circumference and fat mass, while females showed higher fat mass percentages (p < 0.001). Gender differences were observed in the frequency of meals (e.g., 54.7% of males and 64.7% of females consumed 4-5 meals per day, p = 0.0018) and the time of hunger (males: before dinner; females: morning hunger, p = 0.005). The PCA profiles revealed that the 'structured eaters' had a healthier body composition, whereas the 'disordered/impulsive eaters' had a higher fat mass. Irregular eaters were predominantly male (41.0%), while disordered eaters were predominantly female (39.9%) (p = 0.0016). Gender-specific eating patterns influence obesity outcomes. Structured eating was associated with healthier profiles, whereas impulsive or irregular patterns were related to higher fat mass. The retrospective design and non-validated questionnaire for dietary behaviour assessment limit generalisability, warranting further research for tailored interventions. ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06654674).

Overweight Prevalence Changes Before and After COVID-19 in Spain: The PESCA Program Longitudinal Outcomes 2018-2021.

Background: Overweight prevalence in Spain reached critical levels before the COVID-19 pandemic, which likely exacerbated this issue. The PESCA (Programa Escolar de Salud Cardio-vascular) program is a multicomponent school-based intervention, launched in 2018 with the aim of tackling this health problem and reducing overweight rates in youth. Objectives: (1) To analyze the efficacy of the PESCA program intervention on body composition, overweight prevalence, physical activity (PA)/sport practice, resting time, and screentime before COVID-19 and (2) to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 and the associated lockdown measures on these parameters in the studied sample. Methods: This longitudinal study included 207 children and adolescents from schools in Madrid (aged 2.82 to 15.84 years; 44.4% girls), with measurements taken at three time points: two before COVID-19 and one after its onset. Overweight prevalence, body fat percentage diagnosis, physical activity, resting time, and screentime were assessed. Cochran's Q test and repeated-measures ANOVA were used to compare outcomes across the three assessment time points. Results: Overweight prevalence remained stable among children in the PESCA program before COVID-19 (17.87% to 19.81%). However, a significant increase was observed from point 2 to point 3, post-COVID-19 onset (19.81% to 26.57%). Similarly, healthy body composition significantly deteriorated from 63.16% at point 2 to 52.48% at point 3. PA/sport practice prevalence significantly increased until COVID-19 onset (80.19% to 91.22%) but declined thereafter (91.22% to 79.10% from point 2 to point 3). Although the differences were small, resting time significantly decreased post-COVID-19 onset (from 10.18 h at point 2 to 9.96 h at point 3), with no changes in the first period. Non-academic screentime showed a similar pattern: stable before COVID-19 and significantly increased after its onset (1.61 h at point 1; 1.70 h at point 2; 2.29 h at point 3). Conclusions: The PESCA program positively impacted PA/sport practice prevalence and may have provided some protection against overweight and related variables during the pre-COVID period. However, health authorities' restrictions and lockdown policies during COVID-19 negatively affected the health and lifestyle variables studied, offsetting previous improvements.

Protocol for a randomised, double-blinded, controlled trial of youth with childhood-onset obesity treated with semaglutide 2.4 mg/week: the RESETTLE trial

IntroductionChildhood-onset obesity poses significant health risks, including early-onset type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and reduced quality of life. Hospital-based non-pharmacological obesity care can reduce childhood obesity, but 25% of children do not respond. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, semaglutide, as an add-on to hospital-based obesity care in youth who still have obesity following hospital-based obesity care as children. Furthermore, biomedical and psychosocial factors linked to treatment response will be investigated, alongside an exercise-based strategy to prevent weight regain and maintain a healthy body composition after semaglutide treatment.Methods and analysisThis is an investigator-initiated, randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial. We will enrol expectedly 180–270 young adults aged 18–28 years based on their previous response to a paediatric obesity management programme and their current body mass index (BMI). Participants are categorised into four groups: low treatment response (BMI SD score (SDS) reduction &lt;0.10; BMI ≥30 kg/m2); medium treatment response (BMI SDS reduction &gt;0.25; BMI ≥30 kg/m2); high treatment response (BMI SDS reduction &gt;0.50; BMI &lt;30 kg/m2) and a population-based reference group with normal weight development in childhood. Participants with BMI ≥30 kg/m2are randomised 2:1 to subcutaneous injections of semaglutide 2.4 mg/week or placebo as an add-on to hospital-based obesity care for 68 weeks. The primary outcome is the change in BMI from randomisation to the end of treatment with semaglutide compared with placebo. Secondary endpoints are changes in weight and body composition.Ethics and disseminationThe trial has been approved by the Danish Medicines Agency and the Ethical Committee of the Capital Region of Denmark (H-20039422). The trial will be conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and follow the guidelines for Good Clinical Practice. Results will be presented at international scientific conferences and published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.Trial registration numberEudraCT 2019-002274-31.

Revisiting the obesity paradox: lean body mass, fat mass, and mortality in patients with atrial fibrillation

Abstract Background Obesity has been associated with risk of atrial fibrillation (AF), but once AF is established, it seems to be favorable, which is termed the obesity paradox. However, body mass index (BMI), the commonly used anthropometric marker of obesity does not distinguish between fat and lean body mass, and could lead to the potential misclassification of risk categories. Understanding the role of fat and lean mass might provide new insights into the obesity paradox and promote targeted interventions in AF. Purpose To investigate the associations of BMI, lean body mass, and fat mass with all-cause mortality in patients with AF. Methods A total of 8,325 patients (mean age 62.1±6.07 years) with AF at baseline were included in the prospective cohort study using UK biobank data. Body composition data (fat mass and lean body mass) were estimated using an eight-contact electrode Tanita BC418MA segmental body composition analyser. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the above associations. Results During a mean of 13.7 years of follow-up, 2,058 deaths were identified. A U-shaped association was observed between BMI and all-cause mortality. Multivariable adjusted Cox models including fat mass and lean body mass revealed U-shaped associations of fat and lean body mass with all-cause mortality. According to the restricted cubic spline models, the risk of all-cause mortality decreased until around 27 kg/m2 of BMI and increased afterward in both sexes. In women, the average fat mass and lean body mass with 27 kg/m2 of BMI were 27 and 42 kg, respectively. For fat mass, the risk of all-cause mortality decreased up to approximately 27 kg with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.396 (95% confidence interval 0.383-0.410) per standard deviation (SD), and then increased with a HR of 1.323 (1.320-1.326) per SD. A larger reduction in risk was observed within the lower range until 42 kg of lean body mass with a HR per SD of 0.293 (0.275-0.312), which increased gradually thereafter with HR per SD of 1.174 (1.157-1.192). For men, the average fat mass and lean body mass with 27 kg/m2 of BMI were 22 and 60 kg, respectively. The risk of all-cause mortality decreased up to approximately 22 kg of fat mass with a HR of 0.427 (0.412-0.441) per SD, and then increased with a HR of 1.353 (1.348-1.359) per SD. A similar trend of risk reduction was observed until 60 kg of lean body mass [HR (0.443, 0.433-0.454) per SD], which increased gradually thereafter with HR per SD of 1.165 (1.162-1.167). Conclusion Our findings suggest that the associations between between fat and lean body mass, and mortality determined the shape of the association between BMI and mortality. The "obesity paradox" may be largely explained by both fat and lean body mass in AF. Maintaining healthy body composition is of critical importance to improve prognosis in AF. For patients with BMI ≥ 27 kg/m2, more emphasis should be placed on reducing fat mass than lean mass.Associations of BMI, WC, WHtR with deathAssociations of fat/lean mass with death

Bodily Distress Syndrome Is Associated with Impaired Physical Fitness-A Population Based Cross-Sectional Study (DanFunD).

Background and Aim: Functional somatic disorders (FSDs) are a unifying diagnosis that includes functional somatic syndromes (FSSs) as well as the unifying diagnostic construct of bodily distress syndrome (BDS). FSDs are characterized by persistent and troublesome physical symptoms that are prevalent across all medical settings and for which no clinical tests can establish a definitive diagnosis. The aim of this study was to explore associations between BDSs and objective measurements of body composition, cardiorespiratory health, and physical performance. Methods: Analyses are based on data from the Danish population-based cohort study, DanFunD, comprising data on 9656 participants aged 18-76 years and BDS case status, which was established using self-reported questionnaires. Adjusted multiple linear regression analysis was employed to evaluate associations between BDS and different measures of body composition, cardiorespiratory health, and physical performance assessed as part of a general health examination. Results: Compared to controls, individuals with single- or multi-organ BDS exhibited less optimal body compositions characterized by a higher BMI and fat percentage and larger waist circumference, as well as impaired cardiorespiratory health and reduced physical performance (lower maximal oxygen consumption and lower hand grip strength). Further, individuals categorized with multi-organ BDS had a less healthy body composition, lower cardiorespiratory health, and lower physical performance compared to individuals with single-organ BDS. Conclusions: In this cross-sectional study, we found BDS to be associated with suboptimal body composition, impaired cardiorespiratory health, and reduced physical performance. Individuals with multi-organ BDS tended to exhibit lower physical fitness or reduced cardiorespiratory health than individuals with single-organ BDS.

Dietary Patterns Associated with Body-Composition Phenotype in a Middle-Aged and Elderly Population: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

There is currently limited understanding of the intricate dynamics between fat and muscle mass and the potential effect of dietary patterns. This study aimed to investigate the effects of overall dietary patterns on four body composition phenotypes associated with central obesity and low muscle mass in the middle-aged and elderly population of Korea. We examined data from 6120 adults aged ≥ 50 years, collected during the 4th (2008-2009) and 5th (2010-2011) Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants were classified into four groups according to their combined status of central obesity and low muscle mass: healthy control, central obesity, low muscle mass, and sarcopenic obesity. Using factor analysis on the twenty-two pre-defined food groups, we identified three distinct dietary patterns: the "Healthy dietary pattern", "Convenience-based dietary pattern", and "Alcohol and side dish pattern". Multivariate analysis included potential confounders such as age, sex, place of residence, marital status, educational level, occupation, household income, and physical activity level. Higher scores in the "Healthy dietary pattern" were associated with lower odds of sarcopenic obesity (OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.40-0.92, p for trend = 0.018). For the "Convenience-based dietary pattern", individuals in the third tertile of the dietary pattern score showed a marginal association with low muscle mass (OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 0.99-1.41, p for trend = 0.056). The "Alcohol and side dish pattern" was linked to higher odds of central obesity (OR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.03-1.44, p for trend = 0.016) and low muscle mass (OR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.01-1.45, p for trend = 0.043). The drinking practice of consuming foods high in saturated fats and salt alongside alcoholic drinks may negatively affect fat accumulation and muscle composition among older adults. Adopting a healthy eating pattern characterized by grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits, fish, and seaweed could be notably advantageous for promoting and maintaining healthy body composition and optimal skeletal muscle health.

Relationships between social determinants of health and healthy body composition among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in the Next Generation: Youth Well-being study.

Little is currently known about the relationships between body composition and the social determinants of health among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in Australia, which could help inform policy responses to address health inequities. This study aimed to explore the relationship between various social factors and healthy body mass index (BMI) and waist/height ratio (WHtR) among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth aged 16-24 years. Baseline survey data from 531 participants of the 'Next Generation: Youth Well-being study' were used. Robust Poisson regression quantified associations between healthy body composition and self-reported individual social factors (education, employment and income, government income support, food insecurity, home environment, relationship status, racism), family factors (caregiver education and employment) and area-level factors (remoteness, socioeconomic status). Healthy body composition was less common among those living in a crowded home (healthy WHtR aPR 0.67 [0.47-0.96]) and those receiving government income support (healthy BMI aPR 0.74 [0.57-0.95]). It was more common among those with tertiary educated caregivers (healthy BMI aPR 1.84 [1.30-2.61]; healthy WHtR aPR 1.41 [1.05-1.91]) and those in a serious relationship (healthy BMI aPR 1.33 [1.02-1.75]). Social factors at the individual and family level are associated with healthy body composition among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth. SO WHAT?: The findings of this study highlight the potential for health benefits for youth from policies and programs that address social inequities experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia.

Reference data for body composition parameters in normal-weight Polish adolescents: results from the population-based ADOPOLNOR study.

This study provides reference data for body composition in normal (healthy) weight Polish adolescents, providing a contextualised framework that takes into account the unique physiological and environmental factors of the region. These reference data may also be useful for other Central European adolescents. • Adolescence is a period of significant physical growth and increased susceptibility to nutritional problems due to factors such as suboptimal nutrition, unhealthy dietary choices, inadequate physical activity and psychosocial stressors related to body image concerns. • Body composition (BC) parameters, rather than BMI alone, are more effective in identifying nutritional abnormalities and health risks such as eating disorders, obesity and chronic diseases. Existing studies provide reference data for BC parameters, but often do not cover all relevant measures or specific regional populations. • This study provides new age- and sex-specific reference values for a comprehensive range of body composition parameters, including body cell mass (BCM), total body water (TBW) and muscle mass (MM), in addition to fat-free mass (FFM) and fat mass (FM), in a large, ethnically homogeneous, normal-weight population of Polish adolescents aged 10-18years. • These reference values for the normalweight cohort reflect healthy adolescent growth and body composition patterns, minimising bias from abnormal weight status.In addition, they can be applied to other Central European adolescent populations.

Effects of physical inactivity behavior during COVID-19 pandemic on physical fitness, body composition, inflammatory cytokine, and immunocytes in older adults: A retrospective and prospective study

The prolonged period of COVID-19 has ingrained physical inactivity as a habit, leading to a reluctance to move. This has resulted in a decline in physical fitness and the loss of a healthy body composition. While this trend is particularly noticeable among the older adults, its impact on the immune cell defense system, which is crucial for minimizing viral infections, remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the physical fitness, body composition, cytokines and immunocytes of older adults who engaged in physical activity (PA) before the COVID-19 pandemic but had to stop it due to the lockdown. A total of 172 older adults aged 61 to 85 years participated in this study: 90 in non-PA group (NPAG, 34 men and 56 women), and 82 in PA group (PAG, 29 men and 53 women). Physical inactivity was 45.13 ± 5.67 weeks in the NPAG and 1.70 ± 0.43 weeks in the PAG. Although there was no significant difference in calorie intake, PA volume showed a significant decrease in NPGA (P < 0.001). VO₂max, strength, and sit-ups decreased in NPAG, whereas they maintained or increased in PAG (Ps < 0.001). NPAG experienced an increase in fat mass (∼33.0 %), along with a decrease in muscle mass (∼10.4 %), but PAG showed slight increases (∼1.1 % vs. ∼1.5 %, Ps < 0.001). Interleukin-6 (∼38.9 %), tumor necrosis factor-α (∼38.3 %), and C-reactive protein (∼33.6 %) increased, whereas immunocytes decreased in NPAG (Ps < 0.001). In contrast, those in PAG showed the opposite phenomenon. This study indicates that even during the COVID-19 situation, maintaining active PA in the older adults helps retain beneficial physical fitness and body composition, reduces inflammatory factors, and contributes to preserving or enhancing the function of immunocytes.

Choline consumption reduces CVD risk via body composition modification

Despite extensive research on the relationship between choline and cardiovascular disease (CVD), conflicting findings have been reported. We aim to investigate the relationship between choline and CVD. Our analysis screened a retrospective cohort study of 14,663 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2013 and 2018. Propensity score matching and restricted cubic splines was used to access the association between choline intake and the risk of CVD. A two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted to examine the potential causality. Additionally, sets of single cell RNA-sequencing data were extracted and analyzed, in order to explore the role of choline metabolism pathway in the progression and severity of the CVD and the underlying potential mechanisms involved. The adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for stroke were 0.72 (0.53–0.98; p = 0.035) for quartile 3 and 0.54 (0.39–0.75; p < 0.001) for quartile 4. A stratified analysis revealed that the relationship between choline intake and stroke varied among different body mass index and waist circumference groups. The results of MR analysis showed that choline and phosphatidylcholine had a predominantly negative causal effect on fat percentage, fat mass, and fat-free mass, while glycine had opposite effects. Results from bioinformatics analysis revealed that alterations in the choline metabolism pathway following stroke may be associated with the prognosis. Our study indicated that the consumption of an appropriate quantity of choline in the diet may help to protect against CVD and the effect may be choline-mediated, resulting in a healthier body composition. Furthermore, the regulation of the choline metabolism pathway following stroke may be a promising therapeutic target.

Pengukuran Komposisi Tubuh dalam Upaya Deteksi Obesitas pada Laki-laki dan Perempuan Usia Produktif di SMA Kalam Kudus II, Kelurahan Duri Kosambi, Jakarta

This community service evaluated body composition in men and women of productive age at Kalam Kudus II Senior High School, Duri Kosambi, Jakarta. This community service study included 68 respondents. Measurements were carried out using a body composition scae to assess percentage of total fat, visceral fat, subcutaneous fat and total muscle. The results showed that the 51-64 year age group had the highest percentage of total and visceral fat, while the 18-35 year age group had the highest percentage of total muscle. These findings emphasize the importance of routine body composition monitoring for early detection and appropriate intervention to prevent obesity and metabolic disease. Recommended interventions include a balanced diet, increased physical activity, and health education focused on weight management and healthy body composition. The use of body composition analysis technology can provide more accurate data to support effective and measurable health programs among the productive age group.

Essential trace element and phosphatidylcholine remodeling: Implications for body composition and insulin resistance

BackgroundRecent studies indicated that bioactive lipids of phosphatidylcholines (PCs) and lysophosphatidylcholines (LysoPCs) predict unhealthy metabolic phenotypes, but results remain inconsistent. To fill this knowledge gap, we investigated whether essential trace elements affect PC-Lyso PC remodeling pathways and the risk of insulin resistance (IR). MethodsAnthropometric and blood biochemical data (glucose, insulin, and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2)) were obtained from 99 adults. Blood essential/probably essential trace elements and lipid metabolites were respectively measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS). Result and ConclusionExcept for LysoPC (O-18:0/0:0), an inverse V shape was observed between body weight and PC and LysoPC species. A Pearson correlation analysis showed that essential/probably-essential metals (Se, Cu, and Ni: r=-0.4∼-0.7) were negatively correlated with PC metabolites but positively correlated with LysoPC (O-18:0/0:0) (Se, Cu, and Ni: r=0.85–0.64). Quantile-g computation showed that one quantile increase in essential metals was associated with a 2.16-fold increase in serum Lp-PLA2 (β=2.16 (95 % confidence interval (CI): 0.34, 3.98), p=0.023), which are key enzymes involved in PC/Lyso PC metabolism. An interactive analysis showed that compared to those with the lowest levels (reference), individuals with the highest levels of serum PCs (pooled, M2) and the lowest essential/probably essential metals (M1) were associated with a healthier body composition and had a 76 % decreased risk of IR (odds ratio (OR)=0.24 (95 % CI: 0.06, 0.90), p<0.05). In contrast, increased exposure to LysoPC(O-18:0/0:0) (M2) and essential metals (M2) exhibited an 8.22-times highest risk of IR (OR= 8.22 (2.07, 32.57), p<0.05) as well as an altered body composition. In conclusion, overexposure to essential/probably essential trace elements may promote an unhealthy body weight and IR through modulating PC/LysoPC remodeling pathways.

Sagittal spinal curvatures of young adults in the context of their self-reported physical activity and somatic parameters

The objective of this study was to assess the thoracic kyphosis (ThKA) and lumbar lordosis (LLA) in healthy young adults and to investigate potential relationships between spinal curvatures, self-reported physical activity (PA), and somatic parameters. The study included 380 female students and 211 male students aged 20.7 ± 1.5 years. The ThKA and LLA were measured using a Plurimeter-V gravity inclinometer. The level of PA was estimated using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. ThKA was lower in women compared to men, while LLA was higher in women than in men (p < 0.0001). Female students reported lower PA than male students (p < 0.001). Female students with ThKA within normal values reported a significantly higher amount of low-intensity PA compared to those with ThKA below or above the norm. A correlation was found between ThKA and body mass index (BMI), body adiposity index (BAI), WC, and fat percentage (rho < 0.2), whereas LLA showed correlations with BMI, BAI, waist circumference, and fat percentage (rho < 0.2). Among male students, a correlation was found between LLA and BMI as well as WC (rho < 0.2). Maintaining a healthy body composition may be instrumental in mitigating the risk of developing spinal curvature abnormalities.

Effects of Lifelong Exercise on Body Composition and Bone Density

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare body composition and bone density among young exercisers (YE), lifelong exercisers (LLE), and old healthy non-exercisers (OH), as well as between men (M) and women (W). Hypothesis: A hierarchal pattern will emerge (YE &gt; LLE &gt; OH) for healthy body composition and bone density. Both body composition and bone density will differ between M and W. Methods: Healthy adults were separated into three groups: YE (n=20, 10M, 25±1yr, 67±10kg), LLE (n=28, 21M, 74±2yr, 75±12kg), and OH (n=20, 10M, 74±2yr, 77±14kg). Daily physical activity was indirectly assessed using a pedometer (YE: ~10,000steps/day; LLE: ~9,000steps/day; OH: ~6,000steps/day). LLE individuals completed aerobic exercise regularly ~5 days/week (~7 hrs/week) for 52±1yr. Further analysis was done between men and women to investigate potential sex differences (M: n=41, 62±25yr, 80±10kg; W: n=27, 58±28yr, 62±7kg). Dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used to assess body composition (fat and lean mass) and bone mineral density. Results: There was a hierarchal pattern of beneficial body composition related to total body fat (YE: 21±6% &lt; LLE: 25±6% &lt; OH: 37±7%; p&lt;0.05) and lean mass (YE: 79±6% &gt; LLE: 74±6% &gt; OH: 62±7%; p&lt;0.05). In addition, there were sex differences for both total body fat (M: 24±7%; W: 32±9%; p&lt;0.05) and lean mass (M: 75±7%; W: 67±10%; p&lt;0.05). Bone mineral density was not different among the three groups (YE: 1.26±0.10g/cm2; LLE: 1.27±0.18g/cm2; OH: 1.22±0.14g/cm2; P&gt;0.05) but was different between men and women (M: 1.33±0.12g/cm2; W: 1.14±0.11g/cm2; p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: These data suggest lifelong endurance exercise was beneficial for body fat and lean mass in both men and women. Bone mineral density, generally thought to decrease with age, was not impacted by aging or exercise status in this cohort. Women had lower bone mineral density compared to men, regardless of age, which may be related to distinct hormonal regulation between the sexes. Funding Sources: This research was supported by the National Institutes of Health Grant R01-AG038576 and the Ball State University Human Bioenergetics Program. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Evaluation of the Relationship Between Cooking and Food Preparation Skills and Dietary Intake, Body Mass Index, and Body Composition in University Students.

Having cooking and food preparation skills can improve the nutritional and dietary quality of individuals. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between cooking and food preparation skills and food consumption, body mass index and body composition in university students. The study was conducted on 242 individuals aged 18 years and over who were studying at Biruni University between March and May 2023. Demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, dietary habits, knowledge about cooking and food preparation, frequency of food consumption according to cooking methods, cooking and food preparation skills and 24-hour food consumption were questioned by applying a data collection form with face-to-face interview and measurement analysis with Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis device. The Cooking and Food Preparation Skills (CS and FPS) scale developed by Lavelle et al. was used to question skills. The relationship between cooking and food preparation skills, food consumption and anthropometric measurements was investigated by correlation test. There was a significant negative correlation between the total cooking and food preparation skills scale score and carbohydrate consumption in women and a significant positive correlation between energy, protein, fat, magnesium and vitamin D consumption in men (p&lt;0.05). Although there was a positive correlation between total scale score and BMI in women and men, no significance was found (p&gt;0.05). Although there was no significant relationship between total scale score and anthropometric measurements in females, there was a significant positive relationship between total scale score and muscle mass in males (p&lt;0.05). In conclusion, improving cooking and food preparation skills may be an important strategic element to support university students to achieve healthy eating and body composition goals.

More dietary advice may be needed to support healthy body composition for children with cerebral palsy in Aotearoa New Zealand

The available literature on the nutritional status of children with cerebral palsy (CP) worldwide has identified high rates of malnutrition, specifically undernutrition(1). However, there is a current lack of clear CP-specific dietary guidelines for children with CP across all functional levels. Standard reference tools such as estimated energy requirement (EER) and recommended dietary intake (RDI) may overestimate requirements in children with CP, especially those with reduced mobility and activity levels. Furthermore, for children with severe CP, body composition data indicates higher risks of obesity and obesity-related conditions(2). There can be a wide range of functional abilities, classifiable with tools such as the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) and the Eating and Drinking Ability Classification System (EDACS). The majority of nutrition-related CP literature focuses on children requiring assistance for feeding (EDACS IV-V) with little information available for children with higher levels of functional independence. The aim of this study was to determine whether children with CP had received any prior dietary guidance for healthy body composition and to summarise the type of advice received. Children aged 5-12 years and their whānau were invited to participate in a study where a purpose-developed questionnaire captured their history of receiving tailored dietary recommendations for CP. Body composition was assessed via whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan. Nine participants (6 males, median age: 10y, n = 2 Māori), across GMFCS levels I-IV and EDACS levels I-III took part in the study. Out of 9 children, 5 (55%) indicated that their child had never received dietary advice, 3 of whom were classified as obese or overweight based on growth chart percentiles using their measures of body fat percentage, 1 was classified as underweight and 1 was within the healthy ranges. Of the 4 who had previously received advice, its nature was reported as in support of weight gain (n = 3), and weight loss (n = 1). All 4 received dietary advice from a dietitian and 1 reported some additional advice from a pediatrician and/or orthopedic doctor. Two of the children who had received dietary advice fell within a healthy body fat percentage based on the growth chart percentiles at the time of the study, while the other two were classified as overweight or obese. The results indicate the importance of developing clear dietary guidance for children with CP which may differ from that for typically developing children, particularly depending upon CP subtype diagnosis and functional level, in order to support healthy body composition.

RESULTS OF DAILY ENERGY CONSUMPTION OF WORKERS OF TOBACCO PRODUCTION ENTERPRISE

This study reviewed common methods used to measure energy expenditure and body composition. The study also discusses genetic and hormonal factors that regulate energy balance, the concept of a healthy weight, and appetite and body composition.

Investigating nutritional status and body composition in children with cerebral palsy; the Eat, Sleep Play-CP study

Cerebral palsy (CP), or to use the Te Reo term “Hōkai Nukurangi”, is an umbrella name for a group of permanent neurodevelopmental disorders, affecting movement and posture(1), and is the most common childhood onset physical disability globally. The available literature on the nutritional status of children with CP describes high rates of malnutrition, however data appears to be skewed towards children of higher levels of impairment impacting functional independence. Less is known about the nutritional status of children with lower levels of impairment. The aim of the “Eat, Sleep, Play-CP” study was to evaluate total energy intake, total protein intake and the timing of protein intake in relation to physical activity for children with CP across all functional levels living in Aotearoa New Zealand. Children with CP aged 5-12 years were invited to participate in an observational assessment of dietary intake using parent reported 24-hour dietary recall (Intake 24) on three non-consecutive days, accompanied by a questionnaire capturing self-reported sleep and physical activity patterns. Body composition was assessed via whole body dual energy X-ray absorptiometry scan. Nine participants (6 males, median age: 10 years, n = 2 Māori), across Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I-IV, and Eating and Drinking Classification System levels I-III took part in the study. The median total energy intake was 7267kJ/d (range 5355-10731.96kJ/d), and median protein intake was 67g/d (range 49-111g/d). According to the Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand (NRV)(2), 3 of the 9 participants (33%) were within the recommended range for energy intake according to their age and reported physical activity levels. Of the other 6, 4 were below and 2 were above the recommended ranges. All 9 met the recommended protein intake (NRV). Participants had a median percentage body fat of 40% (range 20-46%), and non-fat mass of 58% (range 52-76%). Five participants fell within the overweight or obese range for their age and sex, three of whom were within the recommended range of total energy daily intake according to NRVs. This outcome may indicate that for some children with CP, recommendations could be over-estimating the actual requirements. These early results may bring in to question current practice around guidance for energy intake requirements for children with CP and their whānau to support healthy body composition. Further investigations are needed to establish whether specific energy intake guidelines are required for children with CP.