Healthy Weight Status Research Articles

Impact of Covid-19 pandemic on eating habits of the Turkish population

Aim: This study was planned in order to reveal how the quarantine process applied in Turkey due to the pandemic has affected the eating habits of our society. Material and Methods: This is a cross-sectional comparative survey study. The study was carried out using the Attitude Scale for Healthy Nutrition and sociodemographic data in the cities located in the west of Turkey: Eskisehir, Ankara, and Afyonkarahisar. The survey was applied twice to measure pre-quarantine and post-quarantine information, and completed by reaching 306 people via social media. Results: The majority of the participants in the study were women. The educational and socio-economic levels of the participants were found to be high. The body mass index of the majority of the participants in the study was in the normal or healthy weight status before quarantine, while it shifted to the over-weight status after quarantine. The total score of the Attitude Scale for Healthy Nutrition and the knowledge level scores about nutrition were found to be higher than before quarantine. Discussions: Although the knowledge level of the individuals participating in the study about nutrition increased, it was found that this was not implemented much in practice. Due to the quarantine, individuals began to gain weight. During the quarantine process, ready-to-eat food consumption has decreased significantly. We can say that even though the consumption of ready-to-eat food increased a little after quarantine, it did not return to the previous levels.

Associations Between Perceived Weight Status and Allostatic Load Among Adolescents

Explain the relationship between allostatic load and weight perception of adolescents at a healthy weight and overweight status. Adolescence is a critical time in growth and development which can influence one’s perception of body image. Particularly, body dissatisfaction is a potential stressor among adolescents. Allostatic load is a useful tool to assess the impact of perceived stress on health. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between allostatic load and weight perception among healthy weight and overweight adolescents. A sample of 896 adolescents ages 12-19 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2015-2018 was stratified by weight status. Allostatic load was calculated based on biomarkers representing cardiovascular, metabolic and immune systems. Accuracy of weight perception was assessed using a question regarding weight perception and coding it as either accurate or inaccurate based on self-reported weight. Linear regression analyses were used to assess the relationship between allostatic load and accuracy of perceived weight status while adjusting for confounders. Allostatic load scores did not differ by weight perception in adolescents at a healthy weight (accurate perception μ =1.32; inaccurate perception μ=1.20; p=0.76). Those who accurately perceived their weight as overweight or obese had significantly higher allostatic load scores than those who inaccurately perceived their weight (μ=3.35, μ=2.69, respectively; ß=-0.67 SE=0.20, p<0.01). Among overweight or obese adolescents, those who accurately assess their weight status had higher levels of cardiovascular, metabolic and immune stress. Further research is needed to understand if allostatic load is associated with stress related to perceived weight bias.

High pre-pregnancy BMI with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in Korean women.

Despite the importance of pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in the progression of GDM to type 2 diabetes, few studies have evaluated the combined effect of high pre-pregnancy BMI and GDM status on the future development of type 2 diabetes in Korean women. This study aimed to examine the relationship of pre-pregnancy BMI and GDM history with the risk of type 2 diabetes among Korean women. In addition, the effects of pre-pregnancy BMI and current BMI on the risk of type 2 diabetes were evaluated. Women who gave birth in the Health Examinees Study of the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study from 2004 to 2013 (n = 59,258) were included in this study. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association of pre-pregnancy BMI categories (underweight: <18.5 kg/m2; normal: 18.5–22.9 kg/m2; overweight: 23.0–24.9 kg/m2; obese: ≥25.0 kg/m2) and GDM history with the risk of type 2 diabetes after controlling for the following covariates: age, education, income, smoking status before the first pregnancy, alcohol consumption, regular exercise, menarche age, first pregnancy age, and first pregnancy outcome. Compared to women with normal pre-pregnancy BMIs, women with overweight and obese pre-pregnancy BMIs had higher odds of developing type 2 diabetes (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.13, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–1.25 and AOR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.10–1.50, respectively) after controlling for covariates. Women with pre-pregnancy BMIs <23 kg/m2 and current BMIs ≥23 kg/m2 had increased odds of developing type 2 diabetes (AOR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.51–1.78) compared to those with pre-pregnancy BMIs <23 kg/m2 and current BMIs <23 kg/m2. Among women without a history of GDM, those with overweight and obese pre-pregnancy BMIs had increased odds of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those with normal pre-pregnancy BMIs (AOR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.01–1.24 and AOR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.05–1.44, respectively). Among women with GDM, those with obese pre-pregnancy BMIs had increased odds of developing type 2 diabetes (AOR: 3.84, 95% CI: 1.52–9.87). This study showed that there was a higher likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes in women who were overweight or obese before pregnancy with a history of GDM compared to their counterparts without a history of GDM. Furthermore, high pre-pregnancy BMI or high current BMI increased the risk of type 2 diabetes in Korean women, regardless of GDM history. This emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy weight status before and after pregnancy to prevent the future risk of type 2 diabetes.

An examination of the association between risk of depression and academic performance according to weight status in adolescents: DADOS study

BackgroundThe early identification of emotional and psychological problems during adolescence seems helpful to improve academic performance (AP). However, the association between risk of depression and AP, as well as the role of health-related factors in this association remain to be elucidated. Therefore, the aims of this study were to analyze the association between risk of depression and AP in adolescents; to examine this association according to weight status; and to test the mediating role of weight status in this association. MethodsA sample of 265 adolescents (125 girls) aged 13.9 ± 0.3 years old from the DADOS (Deporte, ADOlescencia y Salud) study was included in the analyses. Risk of depression was self-reported through the Behavior Assessment System for Children and Adolescents. AP was assessed through academic grades and the Spanish version of the Science Research Associates Test of Educational Ability. Weight status was assessed by body mass index (BMI) (kg/m2) and dichotomized according to the international age- and sex-specific BMI cut-offs (non-overweight vs. overweight). ResultsLinear regression analyses showed an inverse association between risk of depression and academic grades (all p<0.05). Further linear regressions analyzing risk of depression and AP (dependent variable) stratified by weight status showed stronger associations among overweight adolescents. Additionally, mediation analyses revealed that weight status acted as a mediator of this association. LimitationsThe cross-sectional design prevents from interfering causal relationships. ConclusionsEducational institutions should promote the early identification of depression as well as the promotion of healthy weight status as strategies to enhance AP in adolescents.

Defining Nutritional and Functional Niches of Legumes: A Call for Clarity to Distinguish a Future Role for Pulses in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Legume food crops can contribute to the solution of diet-related public health challenges. The rich diversity of the botanical family Fabaceae (Leguminosae) allows legumes to fill numerous nutritional niches. Pulses (i.e., a subgroup of legumes including chickpeas, cowpeas, dry beans, dry peas, and lentils) are a nutrient-dense food that could play a key role in eliminating the dramatic underconsumption of dietary fiber and potassium, two dietary components of public health concern, all while maintaining a caloric intake that promotes a healthy weight status. However, incorrect use of terminology—in the commercial and scientific literature as well as in publications and materials prepared for the consuming public—creates confusion and represents a barrier to dissemination of clear dietary guideline messaging. The use of accurate terminology and a simple classification scheme can promote public health through differentiation among types of legumes, better informing the development and implementation of nutritional policies and allowing health care professionals and the public to capitalize on the health benefits associated with different legumes. Although inconsistent grouping of legumes exists across countries, the recently released 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) were chosen to illustrate potential challenges faced and areas for clarification. In the 2020–2025 DGA, pulses are included in two food groups: the protein food group and ‘beans, peas, lentils’ vegetable subgroup. To evaluate the potential of pulses to contribute to intake of key dietary components within calorie recommendations, we compared 100 kilocalorie edible portions of pulses versus other foods. These comparisons demonstrate the unique nutritional profile of pulses and the opportunity afforded by this type of legume to address public health concerns, which can be greatly advanced by reducing confusion through global harmonization of terminology.

How Important is Motor Competence for Healthy Weight Status across Adolescence?

Background: Although evidence supports that motor competence is negatively associated with adiposity levels in children, less is known about how motor competence and weight status relate in adolescence. Adolescence is a critical period to study this relationship because the associations between these elements are expected to strengthen over developmental time. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between motor competence and weight status across adolescence. Methods: A longitudinal study (2-year follow-up) was conducted with 122 participants (59.8% girls) aged 12-13 years at baseline. They were assessed annually at three time points. Body fatness, motor competence, physical activity, and musculoskeletal fitness levels were determined through skinfold thickness, Körperkoordinationstest für Kinder (KTK), Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C), and sit-up tests. Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) models were conducted adjusting for potential confounders (age, gender, anthropometry, physical activity, and fitness). Results: Motor competence and body fat showed moderate-to-high negative correlations (r = -0.65 to -0.69, p < 0.001) across time. Furthermore, motor competence significantly predicted body fat over time (B = -0.05, p = 0.05), even after adjusting for potential confounders. Conclusions: There is a lot of emphasis in the literature on increasing physical activity to maintain a healthy weight status or to prevent unhealthy weight gain, but this study has highlighted the role of motor competence on these aspects across the critical period of adolescence. Therefore, it seems plausible to recommend initiatives that foster the development of motor competence in early adolescence with the aim to prevent obesity.

Effects of eHealth-Based Multiple Health Behavior Change Interventions on Physical Activity, Healthy Diet, and Weight in People With Noncommunicable Diseases: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BackgroundNoncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are associated with the burden of premature deaths and huge medical costs globally. There is an increasing number of studies combining a multiple health behavior change (MHBC) intervention paradigm with eHealth approaches to jointly promote weight-related health behaviors among people with NCD; yet, a comprehensive summary of these studies is lacking.ObjectiveThis review aims to meta-analyze the effectiveness and systematically summarize the characteristics of the relevant intervention studies for improving the outcomes of physical activity, healthy diet, and weight among people with NCD.MethodsFollowing PRISMA guidelines, 4 electronic databases (PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus) were systematically searched to identify eligible articles based on a series of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Article selection, quality assessment, and data extraction were independently performed by 2 authors. The standardized mean difference (SMD) was calculated to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions for 3 intervention outcomes (physical activity, healthy diet, and weight), and subsequent subgroup analyses were performed for gender, age, intervention duration, channel, and theory. Calculations were conducted, and figures were produced in SPSS 22 and Review Manager 5.3.ResultsOf the 664 original hits generated by the systematic searches, 15 eligible studies with moderate to high quality were included. No potential publication bias was detected using statistical analyses. Studies varied in intervention channel, intensity, and content. The meta-analysis revealed that the eHealth MHBC interventions significantly promoted physical activity (SMD 0.85, 95% CI 0.23 to 1.47, P=.008) and healthy diet (SMD 0.78, 95% CI 0.13 to 1.43, P=.02), but did not contribute to a healthy weight status (SMD –0.13, 95% CI= –0.47 to 0.20, P=.43) among people with NCDs, compared to the control conditions. Results from subgroup analysis indicated that theory-based interventions achieved greater effect than nontheory-based interventions in promoting physical activity, and interventions with traditional approaches (SMS, telephone) were more effective than those with modern internet-based approaches in promoting healthy diet.ConclusionsThe results of this review indicates that eHealth MHBC interventions achieve preliminary success in promoting physical activity and healthy diet behaviors among people with NCD. Future studies could improve the intervention design to achieve better intervention effectiveness.Trial RegistrationPROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42019118629; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=118629

Differences in Weight Status and Autonomous Motivation towards Sports among Children with Various Profiles of Motor Competence and Organized Sports Participation.

This study aimed (1) to identify profiles in children based on actual motor competence (AMC), perceived motor competence (PMC), and organized sports participation (OSP), and (2) to examine differences among these profiles in weight status as well as autonomous motivation towards sports. Children’s (N = 206; 112 boys; Mage = 10.83 ± 0.92 years) AMC, PMC, OSP, weight status, and autonomous motivation towards sports were measured using validated assessment tools. Cluster analyses identified three profiles with completely convergent levels of AMC, PMC, and OSP and three profiles with partially convergent levels. Children in the convergent profiles with average to high levels of AMC, PMC, and OSP had the most optimal profile, as they combined a healthier weight status with elevated levels of autonomous motivation, while the opposite was true for children with low levels on all three cluster-variables. Partially convergent profiles showed that AMC and PMC appear crucial for weight status, as profiles with relatively low levels of AMC and PMC had the highest weight status, independent of their OSP levels. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of promoting AMC, PMC, and OSP simultaneously to help children in achieving a healthy weight status and being autonomously motivated towards OSP.

Determinants of Under-Five Children Body Mass Index in Sudan; Application of Quantile Regression: A Systematic Review.

Background:One of the health challenges in Sub-Saharan countries is child malnutrition. Body Mass Index (BMI) can be defined as a measure of nutritional status. Examining the determinants of under-five children’s BMI is a significant subject that needs to be studied. For this study, quantile regression was used to identify the determinants of under-five children’s BMI in Sudan.Methods:We used the 2014 Sudan Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) conducted by the Central Bureau of Statistics. Quantile regression was used.Results:Place of residence, state, mother’s educational level, gender, age of the child, and wealth index were an important effect significantly affecting under-five children’s BMI at different quantile levels.Conclusion:Taking measures on the nutritional status of mothers will accordingly resolve the nutritional status of their children. Therefore, the focus of policymakers should be on the influential significant factors which were found across all quantile levels to plan and develop strategies to enhance the normal or healthy weight status of under-five children in Sudan.

Diet, weight status, and physical activity in cancer prevention

Background: Cancer is a multifactorial disease involving individual, behavioral and environmental factors that can contribute to its onset. More than 40% of cancers are estimated to be attributable to avoidable risk factors, particularly diet, physical activity, weight status, and alcohol consumption. Aim: To provide insight into the role of weight status, diet, and physical activity in cancer causation and prevention, and to highlight evidence-based recommendations. Material and methods: A literature review of published studies, particularly recent systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and large prospective studies was conducted using PubMed/Medline, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases. Results: There is evidence that diets high in red and processed meats, fat and refined carbohydrates, and low in plant foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, high consumption of alcohol, overweight/obesity, and physical inactivity are associated with increased risk of tumor development and progression. Therefore, the current recommendations for cancer prevention are based on: (1) eating at least five portions (400g) of vegetables (3 portions) and fruits (2 portions); (2) limiting the consumption of alcohol and unhealthy foods such as red and processed meats, energy-dense foods, and trans-fatty acids; (3) maintaining a healthy weight status; and (4) being at least moderately physically active. Conclusion: While a balanced diet, as defined by the recommendations, can help reduce the risk of certain cancers, no single food can prevent the development of this pathology. The term "anticancer" associated with diet is therefore misleading. Several nutritional factors are associated with an increase or a decrease in the risk of certain cancers. Adopting a healthy and plant-based diets, avoiding overweight/obesity, and being physically active are considered as cornerstones of preventive strategies against cancer. Further studies are needed to elucidate the associations between dietary and lifestyle patterns and cancer. ​Keywords: Cancer, Diet, Weight status, Overweight, Obesity, Physical activity.

Alimentation, statut pondéral et activité physique dans la prévention du cancer

Background: Cancer is a multifactorial disease involving individual, behavioral and environmental factors that can contribute to its onset. More than 40% of cancers are estimated to be attributable to avoidable risk factors, particularly diet, physical activity, weight status, and alcohol consumption. Aim: To provide insight into the role of weight status, diet, and physical activity in cancer causation and prevention, and to highlight evidence-based recommendations. Material and methods: A literature review of published studies, particularly recent systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and large prospective studies was conducted using PubMed/Medline, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases. Results: There is evidence that diets high in red and processed meats, fat and refined carbohydrates, and low in plant foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, high consumption of alcohol, overweight/obesity, and physical inactivity are associated with increased risk of tumor development and progression. Therefore, the current recommendations for cancer prevention are based on: (1) eating at least five portions (400g) of vegetables (3 portions) and fruits (2 portions); (2) limiting the consumption of alcohol and unhealthy foods such as red and processed meats, energy-dense foods, and trans-fatty acids; (3) maintaining a healthy weight status; and (4) being at least moderately physically active. Conclusion: While a balanced diet, as defined by the recommendations, can help reduce the risk of certain cancers, no single food can prevent the development of this pathology. The term "anticancer" associated with diet is therefore misleading. Several nutritional factors are associated with an increase or a decrease in the risk of certain cancers. Adopting a healthy and plant-based diets, avoiding overweight/obesity, and being physically active are considered as cornerstones of preventive strategies against cancer. Further studies are needed to elucidate the associations between dietary and lifestyle patterns and cancer. Keywords: Cancer, Diet, Weight status, Overweight, Obesity, Physical activity.

Longitudinal analysis of Socioecological obesogenic factors in a National Sample of U.S. children

BackgroundChildhood obesity is a serious public health threat. Although many researchers conducted research on socioecological determinants of childhood obesity, their longitudinal effects remain inconclusive especially among young children. This study examined socioecological factors and associated transitions of children’s body mass index (BMI) status throughout children’s kindergarten to elementary school years, using data from a national longitudinal sample.MethodsThe baseline sample of this study included 1264 children (weighted N = 379,297) extracted from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study (baseline mean age: 5.24 years). The socioecological framework guided selection of socioecological obesogenic variables (e.g., family activity and parental involvement). Longitudinal ordered logistic regressions were performed to determine the associations between socioecological obesogenic variables and unhealthy/healthy changes in BMI status that captured transitions between healthy and unhealthy weight status (i.e., overweight, obesity, and severe obesity).ResultsChildren with Hispanic ethnicity and nonwhite, less socioeconomic and environmental support, and living in households with fewer family members were more likely than their counterparts to have unhealthy BMI status changes over time (all ps < 0.05). Over the study period, girls were less likely than boys to experience transitions to unhealthy BMI status (all ps < 0.05).ConclusionAs hypothesized a priori, the findings of the current affirmed multiple dimensions of how sociological obesogenic factors may influence children’s BMI status changes in a longitudinal setting. In order to maintain children’s long-term healthy weight, more attention should be paid to socioeconomic obesogenic factors surrounding children as well as individual determinants of obesity (e.g., being physically active and having well-balanced nutrition).

Influence of meeting weekday and weekend step count recommendations on weight statusin children

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between meeting step count recommendations during the weekday and weekend and the weight status in school-aged children. A convenience sample of 855 fourth and fifth grade students (9.7 ± 1.0 years) was recruited from 4 elementary schools located in the Western United States. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated using standard procedures and then stratified to weight status categories (healthy weight, overweight/obese) using age- and sex-specific percentiles. Step counts were monitored for seven consecutive days using NL-1000 piezoelectric pedometers. A multilevel generalized linear mixed effect model was used to estimate the odds ratios of meeting segmented step counts recommendations and weight status. Students meeting weekday step count recommendations associated with 39% lower odds of overweight/obesity compared to those not meeting any recommendations (P = 0.02). Those meeting both weekday and weekend recommendations associated with 67% lower odds of overweight/obesity compared to children not meeting any recommendations (P = 0.01). Meeting weekend step count recommendations did not associate with weight status. This study supports the positive relationship between segmented step counts and the healthy weight status of school-aged children.

Effects of the KEIGAAF intervention on the BMI z-score and energy balance-related behaviors of primary school-aged children

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the one- and two-year effectiveness of the KEIGAAF intervention, a school-based mutual adaptation intervention, on the BMI z-score (primary outcome), and energy balance-related behaviors (secondary outcomes) of children aged 7–10 years.A quasi-experimental study was conducted including eight intervention schools and three control schools located in low socioeconomic neighborhoods in the Netherlands. Baseline measurements were conducted in March and April 2017 and repeated after one and 2 years. Data were collected on children’s BMI z-score, sedentary behavior (SB), physical activity (PA) behavior, and nutrition behavior through the use of anthropometric measurements, accelerometers, and questionnaires, respectively. All data were supplemented with demographics, and weather conditions data was added to the PA data. Based on the comprehensiveness of implemented physical activities, intervention schools were divided into schools having a comprehensive PA approach and schools having a less comprehensive approach. Intervention effects on continuous outcomes were analyzed using multiple linear mixed models and on binary outcome measures using generalized estimating equations. Intervention and control schools were compared, as well as comprehensive PA schools, less comprehensive PA schools, and control schools. Effect sizes (Cohen’s d) were calculated.In total, 523 children participated. Children were on average 8.5 years old and 54% were girls. After 2 years, intervention children’s BMI z-score decreased (B = -0.05, 95% CI -0.11;0.01) significantly compared to the control group (B = 0.20, 95% CI 0.09;0.31). Additionally, the intervention prevented an age-related decline in moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) (%MVPA: B = 0.95, 95% CI 0.13;1.76). Negative intervention effects were seen on sugar-sweetened beverages and water consumption at school, due to larger favorable changes in the control group compared to the intervention group. After 2 years, the comprehensive PA schools showed more favorable effects on BMI z-score, SB, and MVPA compared to the other two conditions.This study shows that the KEIGAAF intervention is effective in improving children’s MVPA during school days and BMI z-score, especially in vulnerable children. Additionally, we advocate the implementation of a comprehensive approach to promote a healthy weight status, to stimulate children’s PA levels, and to prevent children from spending excessive time on sedentary behaviors.Trial registrationNetherlands Trial Register, NTR6716 (NL6528), Registered 27 June 2017 – retrospectively registered.

Persistent organic pollutants exposure in newborn dried blood spots and infant weight status: A case-control study of low-income Hispanic mother-infant pairs

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are believed to alter metabolic homeostasis during fetal development, leading to childhood obesity. However, limited studies have explored how fetal chemical exposures relate to birth and infant weight outcomes in low-income Hispanic families at the highest risk of obesity. Therefore, we sought to determine associations between neonatal POPs exposure measured in newborn dried blood spots (DBS) and prenatal diet quality, birth weight, and overweight status at 18 months old. We conducted a case-control study nested within the Starting Early Program randomized controlled trial comparing POPs concentrations in infants with healthy weight (n = 46) and overweight status (n = 52) at age 18 months. Three categories of POPs, organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) were measured in archived newborn DBS. We assessed correlations between prenatal diet quality and neonatal POPs concentrations. Multivariable regression analyses examined associations between POPs (dichotomized at the mean) and birth weight z-score and weight status at 18 months, controlling for confounders. Seven of eight chemicals had detectable levels in greater than 94% of the sample. Higher protein, sodium and refined grain intake during pregnancy were correlated with lower POPs in newborn DBS. We found that high concentrations of perfluorooctanesulfonate (unstandardized coefficient [B]: −0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.96 to −0.29) and perfluorohexanesulfate (B: −0.65, 95% CI: −0.99 to −0.31) were related to lower birth weight z-scores compared to those with low concentrations. We did not find associations between PBDEs, OCPs, and the other PFASs with birth weight z-scores, or between any POPs and weight status at 18 months. In conclusion, two PFASs were associated with lower birth weight, an important indicator of child health and growth, although direct associations with infant overweight status were not found. Whether neonatal POPs exposures contribute to economic and ethnic disparities in early obesity remains unclear.

Effect of Children's Weight Status on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior during Physical Education, Recess, and After School.

Children’s body mass index may affect physical activity (PA) participation. Therefore, this study examined the effect of children’s weight status on underserved elementary school children’s PA and sedentary behavior (SB) throughout the segmented day. Participants were 138 children (age = 8.14 years). Children’s height and weight were measured with subsequent classification of children as healthy weight or overweight/obese. Durations of moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), light PA (LPA), and SB during physical education (PE), morning recess, lunch recess, after school, and overall were assessed via accelerometry over three days. Independent t-tests evaluated differences in children’s MVPA, LPA, and SB during each daily segment by weight status. Significantly higher MVPA was observed for children of healthy weight status versus children with overweight/obesity during morning recess, t(136) = 2.15, p = 0.03, after school, t(136) = 2.68, p < 0.01, and overall, t(136) = 2.65, p < 0.01. Interestingly, comparisons of children of healthy weight status and children with overweight/obesity’s LPA and SB during the after-school segment revealed a trend wherein children with overweight/obesity participated in slightly greater LPA/less SB than children of healthy weight status. Higher MVPA was observed among children of healthy weight versus children with overweight/obesity during most daily segments. Concerted efforts should focus on increasing MVPA among children with overweight/obesity.

Walkability indices and childhood obesity: A review of epidemiologic evidence.

SummaryThe lack of an active neighbourhood living environment can impact community health to a great extent. One such impact manifests in walkability, a measure of urban design in connecting places and facilitating physical activity. Although a low level of walkability is generally considered to be a risk factor for childhood obesity, this association has not been established in obesity research. To further examine this association, we conducted a literature search on PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus for articles published until 31 December 2018. The included literature examined the association between measures of walkability (e.g., walkability score and walkability index) and weight‐related behaviours and/or outcomes among children aged under 18 years. A total of 13 studies conducted in seven countries were identified, including 12 cross‐sectional studies and one longitudinal study. The sample size ranged from 98 to 37 460, with a mean of 4971 ± 10 618, and the age of samples ranged from 2 to 18. Eight studies reported that a higher level of walkability was associated with active lifestyles and healthy weight status, which was not supported by five studies. In addition to reviewing the state‐of‐the‐art of applications of walkability indices in childhood obesity studies, this study also provides guidance on when and how to use walkability indices in future obesity‐related research.

Physical Function Of Aged Population Is Predicted By Motor Competence And Physical Fitness

Fitness and cognitive status on aging has been widely studied and well reported on literature. Independence and functioning are decisive in elders life quality. Motor competence has been associated to children physical activity levels and healthy weight status. Whether or not Motor Competence has additional value in promoting physical function on aging is not well stablished. PURPOSE: to investigate the relationship and influence of motor competence, physical fitness and cognitive status on physical functioning, in aged population. METHODS: institutionalized participants were recruited as a convenience sample in three day-care centers (N=283, women N=184, mean age = 82.05±7.70 years). Physical functioning was assessed through self-report using a composite physical function scale. Physical fitness was evaluated with the Senior Fitness Test. Motor competence was evaluated as the proficiency in overarm throw a tennis ball, measuring the ball velocity, and standing long jump. Cognitive performance was assessed with Mini-Mental State Examination test. T test was used to test the difference between women and men in all variables. Pearson correlation between physical functioning, physical fitness and motor competence was performed. Stepwise regression was used to identify the predictor variables of physical functioning. Significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Men had significant better motor competence and physical fitness results than women. In women, the highest correlation were found between physical functioning and Chair stand (r=0.25), standing long jump (r=0.19) and 2-min step (r=0.19). In men, the highest correlation were found on 2-min step (r=0.30) and overarm throw (r=0.27). Stepwise regression retained the following variables: 2.44 m up-&-Go, standing long jump, and sex (F(3; 212) = 33.73; p < 0.001, R2 = 0.32). Men has an estimate of more 2.162 points in physical functioning than women. Physical functioning is estimate to increased 1 point for every -0.151 s in 2.44 m Up-&-Go, and 1 point for every 0.051 cm in standing long jump. CONCLUSION: Despite having found significant moderate to low correlations in both men and women, it seems that both Motor Competence and Fitness status has important influence on physical functioning.

P40 Nutrition and Other Wellness Indicators are Associated with Healthy Weight Status in Emerging Adults

BackgroundAdult obesity is a complex multi-factorial condition that is associated with weight gain in emerging adulthood. Currently, there is limited understanding about all of the biopsychosocial contributors to weight status in emerging adulthood.ObjectiveTo examine the association between various wellness dimensions and weight status in emerging adults.Study Design, Setting, ParticipantsAnalysis of cross-sectional health assessment data of post-secondary students (n = 374;17-26 years) was conducted.Measurable Outcome/AnalysisThe outcome, BMI, dichotomized as 18.5 to 24.9 and ≥25 kg/meters-squared. The independent variables included the 10 wellness dimensions of the National Wellness Institute's TestWell Wellness Inventory: physical fitness, nutrition, self-care and safety, emotional wellness, social awareness, emotional awareness and sexuality, emotional management, intellectual wellness, occupational wellness, and spiritual wellness. Scores for each of the wellness dimensions were categorized as excellent/good (30-50) and needs improvement (<30). Covariates included age, sex, ethnicity (eg, Caucasian and non-Caucasian), and living situation (eg, with someone or living alone). Bivariate and binary logistic regression analyses were applied to examine associations between weight status and the dimensions of wellness while adjusting for all covariates.ResultsMost participants were in their first year of postsecondary studies (72%), female (80.3%), had healthy body mass index (BMI) status (77.3%), were non-Caucasian (63.3%), and lived with others (n = 327, 87.4%). Bivariate analysis indicated that average BMI significantly differed by emotional awareness and sexuality categories (t = −2.99, P = .003). Based on logistic regression analysis, the likelihood of healthy BMI was increased when scores for nutrition (aOR = 2.3, 95% CI = 1.05-5.02, P = .037), emotional awareness and sexuality (aOR = 2.68, 95% CI = 1.07-6.74, P = .036), and occupational wellness (aOR = 2.07, 95% CI = 1.02-4.19, P = .044) were higher.ConclusionsIntegrated efforts that target nutrition, relationships, and work-life balance may help with healthy weight maintenance in emerging adults. Adult obesity is a complex multi-factorial condition that is associated with weight gain in emerging adulthood. Currently, there is limited understanding about all of the biopsychosocial contributors to weight status in emerging adulthood. To examine the association between various wellness dimensions and weight status in emerging adults. Analysis of cross-sectional health assessment data of post-secondary students (n = 374;17-26 years) was conducted. The outcome, BMI, dichotomized as 18.5 to 24.9 and ≥25 kg/meters-squared. The independent variables included the 10 wellness dimensions of the National Wellness Institute's TestWell Wellness Inventory: physical fitness, nutrition, self-care and safety, emotional wellness, social awareness, emotional awareness and sexuality, emotional management, intellectual wellness, occupational wellness, and spiritual wellness. Scores for each of the wellness dimensions were categorized as excellent/good (30-50) and needs improvement (<30). Covariates included age, sex, ethnicity (eg, Caucasian and non-Caucasian), and living situation (eg, with someone or living alone). Bivariate and binary logistic regression analyses were applied to examine associations between weight status and the dimensions of wellness while adjusting for all covariates. Most participants were in their first year of postsecondary studies (72%), female (80.3%), had healthy body mass index (BMI) status (77.3%), were non-Caucasian (63.3%), and lived with others (n = 327, 87.4%). Bivariate analysis indicated that average BMI significantly differed by emotional awareness and sexuality categories (t = −2.99, P = .003). Based on logistic regression analysis, the likelihood of healthy BMI was increased when scores for nutrition (aOR = 2.3, 95% CI = 1.05-5.02, P = .037), emotional awareness and sexuality (aOR = 2.68, 95% CI = 1.07-6.74, P = .036), and occupational wellness (aOR = 2.07, 95% CI = 1.02-4.19, P = .044) were higher. Integrated efforts that target nutrition, relationships, and work-life balance may help with healthy weight maintenance in emerging adults.

P145 Results of Using Improvised Kitchen Spaces to Teach Skills-Based Nutrition in Schools

<h3>Objective</h3> This program was designed to develop cooking skills among youth living in a rural food desert. <h3>Use of Theory</h3> Research suggests that obesity prevention programs based on Social Cognitive Theory may be effective to promote healthy weight status in school-age youth. SCT was integrated into a nutrition curriculum using improvised kitchen space to provide opportunities for observational learning and development of behavioral skills and self-efficacy. <h3>Target Audience</h3> This program was designed for high school students living in rural southeastern North Carolina. Teachers at the school were interviewed to identify greatest needs for their students, and a curriculum was planned for the entire 9th grade class. <h3>Program Description</h3> The curriculum was implemented in 4 sessions. Session 1 targeted food groups and nutrients, with practice opportunities to analyze food labels. Students used laptops in session 2 to find recipes for favorite meals, analyze the nutrition content using an online application, and modify recipes to meet nutrition requirements. In session 3, student teams traveled to a supermarket where each team had $10 to purchase ingredients, and session 4 was devoted to preparing and tasting the modified recipes in an improvised kitchen. <h3>Evaluation Methods</h3> With IRB approval, the teaching team administered an anonymous follow-up survey to participants (n = 40). Each item (Likert scales) addressed a program objective. Each item began with the stem, "After participating in the nutrition sessions, I feel more confident to:" followed by 12 target behaviors, like "analyze nutrition information for any recipe." <h3>Results</h3> Of 40 participants, 78% reported increased confidence to perform at least 75% of the target behaviors. <h3>Conclusions</h3> Integration of SCT in a cooking curriculum could improve self-efficacy to perform cooking related skills. Higher self-efficacy may increase frequency of a behavior (Glanz, Rimer, and Viswanath, p. 163). Improvised kitchen space provides small teams with chances for observational learning, social support, and stress-free opportunities to develop mastery of skills. <h3>Funding</h3> None.