Visceral Fat Levels Research Articles

PPAR-γ-induced changes in visceral fat and adiponectin levels are associated with improvement of steatohepatitis in patients with NASH.

Background and AimsPeroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR)‐γ agonists decrease hepatic/visceral fat (VF) and improve necroinflammation despite subcutaneous (SC) fat weight‐gain. Understanding the impact of changes in VF, VF‐to‐SC fat distribution (VF/SC) and adiponectin (ADPN) levels in relation to histological improvement after weight‐loss or pioglitazone is relevant as novel PPAR‐γ agonists are being developed for treating non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).MethodsFifty‐five patients with NASH received a −500 kcal/d hypocaloric diet and were randomized (double‐blind) to pioglitazone (45 mg/d) or placebo for 6‐months. Before and after treatment patients underwent a liver biopsy and measurement of hepatic/peripheral glucose fluxes, hepatic/adipose tissue‐IR and, in 35 patients, hepatic and VF/SC‐fat was measured by magnetic resonance spectroscopy/imaging. Data were examined by multivariable statistical analyses combined with machine‐learning techniques (partial least square discriminant analysis [PLS‐DA]).ResultsBoth pioglitazone (despite weight‐gain) and placebo (if weight‐loss) reduced steatosis but only pioglitazone ameliorated necroinflammation. Using machine‐learning PLS‐DA showed that the treatment differences induced by a PPAR‐γ agonist vs placebo on metabolic variables and liver histology could be best explained by the increase in ADPN and a decrease in VF/SC, and to a lesser degree, improvement in oral glucose tolerance test‐glucose concentrations and ALT. Decrease in steatosis and disease activity score (ballooning plus lobular inflammation) kept a close relationship with an increase in ADPN (r = −.71 and r = −.44, P < .007, respectively) and reduction in VF/SC fat (r = .41 and r = .37, P < .03 respectively).ConclusionsReduction in VF and improved VF/SC‐distribution, combined with an increase in ADPN, mediate the histological benefits of PPAR‐γ action, highlighting the central role of fat metabolism and its distribution on steatohepatitis disease activity in patients with NASH.

Circulating Levels of the Short-Chain Fatty Acid Acetate Mediate the Effect of the Gut Microbiome on Visceral Fat.

BackgroundAcetate is a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) produced by gut bacteria, which has been implicated in cardio-metabolic health. Here we examine the relationships of circulating acetate levels with gut microbiome composition and diversity and with visceral fat in a large population-based cohort.ResultsMicrobiome alpha-diversity was positively correlated with circulating acetate levels (Shannon, Beta [95%CI] = 0.12 [0.06, 0.18], P = 0.002) after adjustment for covariates. Six serum acetate-associated bacterial genera were also identified, including positive correlations with Coprococcus, Barnesiella, Ruminococcus, and Ruminococcaceae NK4A21 and negative correlations were observed with Lachnoclostridium and Bacteroides. We also identified a correlation between visceral fat and serum acetate levels (Beta [95%CI] = −0.07 [−0.11, −0.04], P = 2.8 × 10–4) and between visceral fat and Lachnoclostridium (Beta [95%CI] = 0.076 [0.042, 0.11], P = 1.44 × 10–5). Formal mediation analysis revealed that acetate mediates ∼10% of the total effect of Lachnoclostridium on visceral fat. The taxonomic diversity showed that Lachnoclostridium and Coprococcus comprise at least 18 and 9 species, respectively, including novel bacterial species. By predicting the functional capabilities, we found that Coprococcus spp. present pathways involved in acetate production and metabolism of vitamins B, whereas we identified pathways related to the biosynthesis of trimethylamine (TMA) and CDP-diacylglycerol in Lachnoclostridium spp.ConclusionsOur data indicates that gut microbiota composition and diversity may influence circulating acetate levels and that acetate might exert benefits on certain cardio-metabolic disease risk by decreasing visceral fat. Coprococcus may play an important role in host health by its production of vitamins B and SCFAs, whereas Lachnoclostridium might have an opposing effect by influencing negatively the circulating levels of acetate and being involved in the biosynthesis of detrimental lipid compounds.

The comparative analysis of morphological and functional indicators of armwrestling and street workout athletes

Background and Study Aim. The purpose of the work is a comparative analysis of morphological and functional indicators and characteristics of the somatotype of armwrestling athletes and street workout athletes. Material and Methods. The study involved Street Workout athletes (StW, n = 15, age - 14.87 ± 0.42 years, training experience - 1.48 ± 0.22 years) and armwrestling athletes (ArW, n = 11, age - 14.87 ± 0.42 years, training experience - 1.48 ± 0.22 years). The body length and body mass were determined. The level and harmony of physical development were assessed by the regression method. Handgrip was assessed in a static mode. The electronic handgrip dynamometer Camry EH101 (China) was used. The handgrip is determined by the maximum frequency of the grip in 10 s. The electronic device "Kepai" (China) was used to measure it. The content of muscle and adipose tissue, the level of visceral fat were determined. The body structure monitor OMRON BF-511 (Japan) was used. The handgrip index, hand impulse index, static and dynamic handgrip index were calculated. Differences were assessed using the Rosenbaum test (Q). Results. A high level of handgrip was determined for all athletes. The average value of the strength index was the StW group - more than 60% of body mass; the ArW group - more than 70% of body mass. The following indicators were observed in the ArW group: harmonious physical development had (27.27 ± 13.43)% of athletes; disharmony due to excess body mass had (45.45 ± 15.01)% of athletes; disharmony due to body mass deficit had (27.27 ± 13.43)% of athletes; normal fat content had (63.64 ± 14.50)% of athletes; low-fat content had (18.18 ± 11.63)% of athletes; high and high-fat content had (9.09 ± 8.67)% of athletes. The ArW group was characterized by high - (50.00 ± 15.81)%, high - (40.00 ± 15.49)%, and normal - (10.00 ± 9.49)%-the specific weight of muscle tissue. In the StW group, the following indicators were observed: harmonious physical development had (46.67 ± 12.88)% of athletes; disharmony due to excess body mass had (53.33 ± 12.88)% of athletes; normal fat content had (57.14 ± 13.23)% of athletes; low-fat content had (42.86 ± 13.23)% of athletes. All athletes in the StW group had a high proportion of muscle tissue. It was found that exercises with your body mass in a street workout decreased fat content compared to armwrestling. Conclusions. The results confirmed the specific effect of the sport on the body of athletes. Handgrip should be considered as a success predictor in these sports. The information content of the proposed handgrip indices for monitoring the functional state of athletes was confirmed.

BODY FAT AND VISCERAL FAT AMONG MARRIED MAN AND WOMAN IN RURAL SOCIETIES

High levels of body fat and visceral fat are the causes of metabolic disorders which are influenced by several factors, including gender. Good social economic condition has brought many changes in the food choices and eating behaviors among married man and woman in rural societies. This shift around nutrition has given rise to Body Fat dan Visceral Fat level which is lead to degenerative illness. Considering this condition, the present study was planned to 1) determine the differences of Body Fat and Visceral fat among married Man and Woman and 2) Find the relationship between the Body Fat with Visceral Fat among Man and Woman. A total of 34 Karang Tengah Villagers 15 Men, 19 women, 18-30+ years from all over the village were voluntary joining the study. Verbal Inform concern was obtained, a self-administered questionnaire was given, and the Body composition were measured by bio-electric impedance analysis device. Data were analyzed using SPSS – 23. The results indicated that Body Fat average in Man were lower than Woman with 21,28% and 39,25%, respectively (p-value 0.000). But different result showed in Visceral Fat, Men were Higher than Women, 10,4 and 7,26, respectively (p-value 0.028). Significant positive correlations were found among Body Fat and Visceral Fat level in both Men (r 0,977, p-value 0,000) and Women (r 0,971, p-value 0,000). Findings of present study suggest that there is need for coordinated efforts to reduce the prevalence of high percentage Body Fat and Visceral Fat and to develop healthy eating behaviors among Villagers.

BODY FAT AND VISCERAL FAT AMONG MARRIED MAN AND WOMAN IN RURAL SOCIETIES

High levels of body fat and visceral fat are the causes of metabolic disorders which are influenced by several factors, including gender. Good social economic condition has brought many changes in the food choices and eating behaviors among married man and woman in rural societies. This shift around nutrition has given rise to Body Fat dan Visceral Fat level which is lead to degenerative illness. Considering this condition, the present study was planned to 1) determine the differences of Body Fat and Visceral fat among married Man and Woman and 2) Find the relationship between the Body Fat with Visceral Fat among Man and Woman. A total of 34 Karang Tengah Villagers 15 Men, 19 women, 18-30+ years from all over the village were voluntary joining the study. Verbal Inform concern was obtained, a self-administered questionnaire was given, and the Body composition were measured by bio-electric impedance analysis device. Data were analyzed using SPSS – 23. The results indicated that Body Fat average in Man were lower than Woman with 21,28% and 39,25%, respectively (p-value 0.000). But different result showed in Visceral Fat, Men were Higher than Women, 10,4 and 7,26, respectively (p-value 0.028). Significant positive correlations were found among Body Fat and Visceral Fat level in both Men (r 0,977, p-value 0,000) and Women (r 0,971, p-value 0,000). Findings of present study suggest that there is need for coordinated efforts to reduce the prevalence of high percentage Body Fat and Visceral Fat and to develop healthy eating behaviors among Villagers.

Pharmacokinetic characteristics and morphometric effects of sodium-glucose contransporter-2 inhibitors in men and women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (literature review and own results)

Background. According to the latest international clinical guidelines, gliflozins— sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors— are indicated as oral antidiabetic drugs of second-third-line therapy in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Due to insulin-independent stimulation of glucosuria, gliflozins have extraglycemic effects such as weight loss, improved adipose tissue distribution, better plasma lipid profile, and decreased uricemia that in generally reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of dapagliflozin in the treatment of men and women with type 2 diabetes mellitus with a metabolically unhealthy phenotype. Materials and methods. The study included 17 individuals with diabetes mellitus type 2 (11 men and 6women), aged 58.0±1.7 years (95% confidence interval 53–62), whose body composition was evaluated by bioelectric impedance using a Tanita analyzer BC-545N (Japan). Patients received therapy with dapagliflozin, antihypertensive and antihyperlipidemic drugs (statins). Results. A three-month use of dapagliflozin in a dose of 10 mg once daily caused a decrease in body mass index, waist circumference, improvement of body composition, in particular a reduction in total body fat (the significance of changes was determined using a paired t-test). No significant changes in muscle and bone mass, body composition, lipid profile, and uricemia level were observed. The group of women, in contrast to men, had a decreased level of visceral fat, which was accompanied by an improvement in the body’s water supply, and a reduction in the estimated metabolic age. Conclusions. Treatment of type 2 diabetes patients with sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors for 3 months has reduced the degree of obesity and improved some indices of body composition. Confirmation of this trend can be obtained in further observations.

Association Between Visceral Fat and Brain Cortical Thickness in the Elderly: A Neuroimaging Study.

BackgroundDespite emerging evidence suggesting that visceral fat may play a major role in obesity-induced neurodegeneration, little evidence exists on the association between visceral fat and brain cortical thickness in the elderly.PurposeWe aimed to examine the association between abdominal fat and brain cortical thickness in a Korean elderly population.MethodsThis cross-sectional study included elderly individuals without dementia (n = 316). Areas of visceral fat and subcutaneous fat (cm2) were estimated from computed tomography scans. Regional cortical thicknesses (mm) were obtained by analyzing brain magnetic resonance images. Given the inverted U-shaped relationship between visceral fat area and global cortical thickness (examined using a generalized additive model), visceral fat area was categorized into quintiles, with the middle quintile being the reference group. A generalized linear model was built to explore brain regions associated with visceral fat. The same approach was used for subcutaneous fat.ResultsThe mean (standard deviation) age was 67.6 (5.0) years. The highest quintile (vs. the middle quintile) group of visceral fat area had reduced cortical thicknesses in the global [β = –0.04 mm, standard error (SE) = 0.02 mm, p = 0.004], parietal (β = –0.04 mm, SE = 0.02 mm, p = 0.01), temporal (β = –0.05 mm, SE = 0.02 mm, p = 0.002), cingulate (β = –0.06 mm, SE = 0.02 mm, p = 0.01), and insula lobes (β = –0.06 mm, SE = 0.03 mm, p = 0.02). None of the regional cortical thicknesses significantly differed between the highest and the middle quintile groups of subcutaneous fat area.ConclusionThe findings suggest that a high level of visceral fat, but not subcutaneous fat, is associated with a reduced cortical thickness in the elderly.

Associations of MC4R, LEP, and LEPR Polymorphisms with Obesity-Related Parameters in Childhood and Adulthood.

MC4R, LEP, and LEPR genes are involved in the hypothalamic leptin-melanocortin regulation pathway, which is important for energy homeostasis. Our study aimed to evaluate the associations between the MC4R rs17782313, LEP rs7799039, and LEPR rs1137101 polymorphisms with obesity-related parameters in childhood and adulthood. The data were obtained from the Kaunas Cardiovascular Risk Cohort study, which started in 1977 with 1082 participants aged 12–13 years. In 2012–2014, the follow-up survey was carried out. Genotype analysis of all respondents (n = 509) aged 48–49 years was performed for the gene polymorphisms using Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction. Anthropometric measurements were performed in childhood and adulthood. In childhood, only skinfold thicknesses were associated with gene variants being the lowest in children with MC4R TT genotype and LEP AG genotype. In adulthood, odds of obesity and metabolic syndrome was higher in MC4R CT/CC genotype than TT genotype carriers (OR 1.8; 95% CI 1.2–2.8 and OR 1.6; 95% CI 1.1–2.4, respectively). In men, physical activity attenuated the effect of the MC4R rs17782313 on obesity. The LEP GG genotype was associated with higher BMI, waist circumference, and visceral fat level only in men. No associations of the LEPR rs1137101 polymorphisms with anthropometric measurements and leptin level were found. In conclusion, the associations of the MC4R and LEP gene polymorphisms with obesity-related parameters strengthened with age.

Visceral fat level correction of the left ventricular hypertrophy electrocardiographic criteria.

BackgroundLeft ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a well‐known risk factor for cardiovascular events. Even though there are many electrocardiographic (ECG) criteria for LVH, they still provide poor performance, especially among obese patients. The aim of this study was to examine whether adding visceral fat to ECG LVH criteria improves accuracy in the diagnosis.MethodsOne thousand seven hundred twenty two patients were included in the study. All patients underwent a complete physical examination, office blood pressure measurement, analysis of body composition, 12‐lead ECG, and M‐mode two‐dimensional echocardiography. Four standard ECG criteria for LVH were analyzed, including Cornell voltage criteria, Cornell duration criteria, Sokolow–Lyon voltage criteria, and Sokolow–Lyon product criteria. Adjustments of ECG LVH criteria were performed using visceral fat level (VFATL) and BMI. Transthoracic echocardiography was used as a reference method to compare the quality of ECG LVH criteria.ResultsMultivariate logistic regression models were created and revealed a significant increase of area under curve (AUC) after VFATL and BMI addition to ECG LVH criteria. Improvement of sensitivity at 90% specificity was observed in all created models. The odds ratio (OR) of the analyzed ECG criteria increased after adding VFATL and BMI to the models. Furthermore, ROC curves analysis exposed better characteristics in detecting LVH of VFATL‐adjusted criteria than BMI‐adjusted and unadjusted criteria.ConclusionsAdjusting ECG indexes to BMI or VFATL improves the sensitivity of LVH detection. VFATL‐corrected indexes are more sufficiently than BMI‐corrected. After advancements in indexes, both lean and morbidly obese individuals outcomes show a greater prevalence of correct LVH diagnosis.

Relative Fat Mass, a new tool for measuring obesity, could predict the complications of type 2 diabetes

Aim/background: Obesity is a chronic disease contributing to many metabolic illnesses, in particular type 2 diabetes. The Relative Fat Mass (RFM) is a tool recently introduced for obesity which better predicts the level of visceral fat than the Body Mass Index (BMI). The aim of this study is to determine whether RFM is a better predictor of the cardiometabolic risk factors and the complications of type 2 diabetes than BMI. Materials and methods: This is a cross sectional study. A list of information was collected from endocrinologists treating type 2 diabetic patients in a primary healthcare clinic and a tertiary hospital in Beirut. This list allowed us to evaluate the micro and macro vascular complications of type 2 diabetic patients, to assess their risk factors and to calculate their RFM and BMI. Results: We analyzed the data of 359 patients. Higher RFM was associated with higher systolic blood pressure (p &lt; 0.05), and both RFM and BMI were significantly correlated to higher CRP, triglyceride levels and liver enzymes. However, the BMI was better associated with other cardiometabolic risk factors such as the total cholesterol (p = 0,003), LDL cholesterol (p = 0,002) and HbA1c (p = 0,01) than RFM. Both RFM and BMI were correlated with higher microalbuminuria (p &lt; 0.001) but unlike BMI, higher RFM was associated with higher creatinine level (p = 0.317 versus 0.047 respectively) and therefore better linked to diabetic nephropathy than BMI. More importantly, we observed an unprecedented result, associating RFM to diabetic neuropathy: a normal RFM excludes diabetic neuropathy with a high probability of 82.5%. Furthermore, a RFM cutoff value of 30.76 in men and 43.31 in women showed an increased risk of developing diabetic neuropathy by 2.464. No association was observed between RFM and diabetic retinopathy. Conclusion: The RFM better predicts microvascular complications of diabetes than BMI except for retinopathy. It is also associated with a worse profile of metabolic syndrome. This study is unique in its discovery of the potential role of RFM as a tool which could rule out neuropathy in diabetic patients.

Metabolically healthy obesity and risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease severity independent of visceral fat.

Obesity and metabolic conditions may be related to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The study assesses the risk of NAFLD according to obesity and metabolic health status in a community-based population. A total of 1651 subjects were recruited from the community. Individuals were categorized into four groups according to obesity status (defined as a body mass index≥25kg/m2 ) and metabolically healthy status: metabolically healthy nonobesity (MHNO), metabolically healthy obesity (MHO), metabolically unhealthy nonobesity (MUHNO), and metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUHO). NAFLD was diagnosed based on a semiquantitative ultrasonography measurement. Visceral fat was assessed through bioelectrical impedance analysis and is shown by tertile (T1, T2, and T3). A proportional odds model was used to assess the cumulative risk of NAFLD. The NAFLD prevalence was 26.7%, 62.8%, 47.0%, and 76.7% in subjects with MHNO, MHO, MUHNO, and MUHO, respectively (P<0.0001). After adjustment for age, sex, exercise habits, alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, and visceral fat, the odds ratios for more severe NAFLD were 2.44 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.64-3.65), 2.75 (95% CI: 1.91-3.94), and 7.41 (95% CI: 4.94-11.12) in the MHO, MUHNO, and MUHO groups, respectively, compared with the MHNO group. In addition, the odds ratios for more severe NAFLD significantly increased with the increase in visceral fat level (T2 vs T1: 3.83, 95% CI: 2.65-5.53; T3 vs T1: 9.17, 95% CI: 5.33-15.79). Both obesity and metabolically unhealthy status were associated with a higher risk of NAFLD independent of visceral fat level.

Adiposity Measurements and Metabolic Syndrome Are Linked Through Circulating Neuregulin 4 and Adipsin Levels in Obese Adults.

BackgroundAdiposity and adipokines are associated with metabolic disorders, but little is known regarding that whether adiposity measurements link metabolic syndrome (MetS) through circulating neuregulin 4 (Nrg4) and adipsin levels.Materials and MethodsA total of 1212 subjects with a waist circumference greater than 90 cm for men or 80 cm for women were enrolled from a Chinese community. Circulating Nrg4 and adipsin levels were measured using commercial kits. Mediation analyses of circulating Nrg4 and adipsin were performed in the study using linear and logistic regression.ResultsSubjects with MetS had higher waist circumference, visceral fat level, and circulating adipsin level, and lower levels of circulating Nrg4 and muscle mass to visceral fat (MVF) ratio (all P < 0.05). In multivariable logistic regression analyses, after adjusting for confounding variables, per standard deviation (SD) increase in waist circumference and visceral fat level were significantly associated with increased odds of MetS [OR (95% CI), 1.42 (1.22–1.64); 2.20 (1.62–2.99); respectively]; and per SD reduction in MVF ratio was significantly associated with reduced odds of MetS [OR (95% CI), 0.65 (0.55–0.77)]. In the mediation analyses, both circulating Nrg4 and adipsin levels mediated the association between waist circumference (8.31% and 18.35%, respectively), visceral fat level (7.50% and 9.98%, respectively), and MVF ratio (5.80% and 9.86%, respectively) and MetS after adjustments.ConclusionThese findings indicate that adiposity measurements and MetS are linked through circulating Nrg4 and adipsin levels in obese adults, suggesting that circulating Nrg4 and adipsin levels might be potential predictors for management of MetS.

Cardiovascular Responses to Submaximal Exercise Stress Test in Adolescents with High Visceral Fatness

Background and Aim: Visceral adiposity per se was associated with risk of developing hypertension in future. There is escalating trend of visceral obesity in Indian adolescents. Nonetheless, the Asian Indian population is known to have an affinity for central fat deposition than peripheral fat. Meanwhile, the association of visceral adiposity and cardiovascular response to exercise in Indian adolescents of 18-19 years’ age group has not been well described so far. Therefore, the present study was undertaken. Methods: A Cross-sectional study was conducted on 120 non-athletes’ (60 males and 60 females) late Indian Adolescents of 18-19 years’ age group. Visceral Fat (VF) and Other Body composition were measured by Bioelectrical Impedance technique using Omron HBF 302 body fat analyzer. The participants were customized into two groups based on their Visceral Fat Level (0-9: Normal VF group; &gt; 9: High VF group). Exercise Testing was done by treadmill exercise test following standard Bruce protocol. Cardiovascular reactivity (Heart Rate, Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure) was checked at the end of each stage of Bruce Protocol. Results: Increased SBP and DBP responses to treadmill exercise tests at different stages were seen in high VF groups in both the genders. However, no abnormal reactivity was observed in high VF groups of both the genders. Conclusion: During treadmill exercise stress test, high blood pressure reactivity was seen in high visceral fat adolescents as compared to normal visceral fat adolescents, which was primarily due to their high resting blood pressure. Adolescents with normal visceral fat were competent to cross more number of Bruce stages than high visceral fat Indian adolescents. Visceral fat had a stronger influence on baseline cardiovascular parameters like systolic and diastolic blood pressure as well as blood pressure parameter during exercise than total body fat.

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN BODY FAT DISTRIBUTION AND BLOOD PRESSURE IN NORMAL-WEIGHT CHINESE CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

Objective: Body fat distribution is commonly considered as playing a significant role in blood pressure (BP), whether normal-weight children and adolescents whose body fat distribution confer BP risk that remains uncertain. Aim of this study was to assess the associations of body fat distribution with BP risk in normal-weight Chinese children and adolescents. Design and method: A cross-sectional study consisted of 898 normal-weight children and adolescents aged 10–18 years from China. Participants were selected using a cluster sampling method and underwent bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) for body fat distribution indexes. Results: Body fat distribution was related with an increased risk for BP in normal-weight children and adolescents. After adjustment for gender and age, visceral fat level(VFL) was positively associated with abnormal BP (OR:1.109 95%CI, 1.016–1.210; P &lt; 0.05), and the same result also found when including fat mass percentage(FMP; P &lt; 0.05). FMP, VFL and VFL/FMP ratio showed a positively association with abnormal BP in girls after adjustment for age, respectively (OR:1.08; 95%CI, 1.03–1.13; P &lt; 0.01)(OR:1.22; 95%CI, 1.07–1.38; P &lt; 0.01)(OR:1.08; 95%CI, 1.01–1.14; P &lt; 0.05). However, when both FMP and VFL were adjusted for age, FMP but not VFL negatively associated with abnormal BP in boys (OR:0.94; 95%CI,0.88–1.00; P &lt; 0.05), and the same result also found when additional including VFL/FMP ratio in the same model(P &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: The body fat distribution (especially visceral fat) is associated with abnormal BP in normal-weight children and adolescents, especially in girls. Therefore, attention should be paid to the relative effect of body fat distribution (especially visceral fat) on BP in the prevention and treatment of hypertension in youths.

Association of separate components of the metabolic syndrome and suicidal risk in patients with schizophrenia

IntroductionPatients with schizophrenia have increased cardiovascular and suicide risk. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is widespread in this group, however, there are no unambiguous data on the relationship between the separate components of metabolic syndrome and suicide risk.ObjectivesTo examine the relationship between the separate components of the MetS and suicide risk in patients with schizophrenia.MethodsWe examined 64 patients with schizophrenia. All patients received antipsychotic therapy in doses comparable in chlorpromazine equivalents. We measured serum levels of lipids, glucose and insulin. The visceral fat level was determined through the non-invasive bioimpedance analysis with an “Omron BF508” scale and body composition monitor. Suicide risk was assessed using Beck Hopelessness Inventory. There were identified two groups of examined: with MetS and without MetS. In both groups were distinguished two subgroups: patients with normal range of hopelessness and patients with mild and moderate hopelessness. Subgroups were compared among themselves for a number of anthropometric, biochemical and clinical indicators. Statistical analysis was conducted using Mann-Whitney U-test. Reliability level corresponded to p&lt;0.05. This study was supported by a grant from the Russian Science Foundation 18-15-00011.ResultsWaist circumference, body weight and BMI in subgroup with normal hopelessness range in the group of patients with MetS were significantly higher (figure 1).ConclusionsWe were able to establish a negative relationship between the waist circumference, body weight and BMI with suicide risk in schizophrenia patients. It can be assumed that adipose tissue can play a “protective” role in the suicidal behavior of schizophrenia patients.

The association between body composition and metabolically unhealthy profile of adults with normal weight in Northwest China.

ObjectiveRelated evidences of metabolically unhealthy profile of adults with normal weight are not well characterized in the Chinese population. This is because they cannot be effectively identified by regular measurements (such as body mass index [BMI]). To overcome this gap in literature, this study aimed at investigating the association between body composition and metabolically unhealthy profile in Chinese adults with normal weight.MethodsA total of 5427 individuals with normal-weight were recruited from 15820 people living in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region in Northwest China. Normal-weight was defined as a BMI of 18.5–23.9 kg/m2. Metabolically unhealthy profile was assessed by the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III). Metabolically unhealthy normal-weight (MUHNW) profile was defined in individuals who had normal weight and at least two cardiometabolic risk factors. Generalized linear model was used to investigate the association between body composition measured by bioelectrical impedance and metabolically unhealthy profile in adults with normal-weight.ResultsThe percentage of metabolically unhealthy profile was 35.86% in adults with normal weight. Different MUHNW distributions were found between males and females depending on age. The percentage of the MUHNW profile significantly increased in women after the age of 55, contrary to men. The association between body composition and MUHNW was affected by age and sex. The increased adiposity indices (fat mass index [FMI], visceral fat level [VFL], waist circumference [WCF]), and reduced skeletal muscle mass ratio [SMR] showed significant differences between MUHNW and metabolically healthy with normal weight (MHNW) (p < 0.05).ConclusionThe distribution of MUHNW differed between ages and sexes. FMI, VFL, WCF and SMR could be responsible for the MUHNW adults, providing a new insight into the potential metabolic risks for the adults with normal weight in China. This directs us in the management of the MUHNW for their early prevention.

Gorban Features of autonomic regulation of heart rate depending on the composition of the body in young people

Objective: of the research was to study preclinical changes in heart rate variability (HRV) associated with overweight and obesity in young people in order to determine the targets of predictive therapy.Material and methods: the study involved 105 young men and 111 young women aged 18 to 30 years. Questionnaires, anthropometry with determination of body mass index and waist circumference, bioimpedansometry with determination of body fat (BF) and visceral fat (VF) level, as well as monitoring of HRV based on short (ten-minute) records were carried out.Result: young people of both sexes showed a high frequency of overweight (24.1%) and obesity (18.5%), as well as a low level of physical activity (FA, 46.3%). In 28.8% of young men and 12.5% of young women with overweight and obesity, there was a high level of VF. Taking into account the outstripping increase in VF as compared to BF, it is reasonable to divide the VF levels into low (&lt;5 conventional units), intermediate (5-9 conventional units), and high (&gt; 9 conventional units). In overweight young people, compared with normal body weight, HRV is characterized by less pronounced parasympathetic activity, and in girls compared with young men, there is less total HRV. A high HRV level is associated with such HRV indicators as an increase values of LF/ HF and SDANN, reflecting, respectively, a reduction in the parasympathetic and enhanced sympathetic activity of the autonomic nervous system with a predominance of the central circuit of heart rhythm regulation over the autonomous one.Conclusion: to diagnose autonomic imbalance in young people, it is necessary to determine the composition of the body, FA level, take into account the individual dynamics of HRV parameters, since they rarely exceed the norm. Changes in total HRV, sympathetic and parasympathetic activity during the non-drug correction of obesity should be monitored with an emphasis on pNN (50) and SDANN indicators associated with BF, and when correcting physical activity — on the indicator of voltage index of regulatory systems.

An analysis of dietary patterns and body composition parameters in the Polish population.

Lifestyle factors are the key determinants of health. Diet exerts the great influence on the weight to height ratio and the body fat percentage. In addition to total energy intake, the type and quality of the diet can also play a role in the etiology of obesity in susceptible individuals. Aim of this study was to identify the dietary patterns of the Polish population and to determine the associations between these characteristics and body composition parameters. This study presents the clustering of dietary models and body composition to determine the association of these dietary patterns with BMI, physique rating (body type) or visceral fat. The sample consisted of 402 respondents aged 18 to 65. Nutrition models were identified with cluster analysis. Logistic regression modelling with adjustment for confounders was applied. Three dietary-lifestyle patterns were identified. Individuals belonging to the processed food model were at significantly higher risk of overweight and obesity expressed by BMI scores (OR=1.55; 95%CI: 1.26-1.89). The average BMI score was 28.19 ± 3.45 kg/m2 in the processed food model, 23.78 ±2.21 kg/m2 in the control group, and 22.17 ± 2.69 kg/m2 in the healthy nutrition model. Respondents belonging to the processed food model were also characterized by considerably higher body fat percentage (OR=1.89, 95%CI: 1.37-2.34) and higher visceral fat levels (OR=2.12; 95%CI: 1.42-2.34). Frequent intake (at least several times a week) of sweetened carbonated or non-carbonated beverages (p=0.002) and instant foods (p=0.006) were the main factors associated with the risk of higher body fat percentage and higher visceral fat levels. Dietary patterns have been proposed as a solution to investigating the association between food choice and body composition, and such studies focus on analyses of the entire diet, rather than on the intake of individual nutrients or food groups.

Adiposity Phenotypes and Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Adults from Sub-Saharan Africa: An H3Africa AWI-Gen Study.

Background:Obesity and adipose tissue distribution contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by promoting atherosclerosis. This association has been poorly studied in sub–Saharan Africa (SSA) despite the rising prevalence of cardiovascular disease.Objectives:We determined the association between various adiposity phenotypes and carotid intima–media thickness (CIMT), a proxy of subclinical atherosclerosis, in a large SSA population.Methods:A population–based cross–sectional study was performed from 2013–2016 in Burkina Faso, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa. Body mass index (BMI), waist (WC), hip circumferences (HC), visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SCAT) using B-mode ultrasound were measured. Ultrasonography of left and right far wall CIMT of the common carotid artery was used as an indicator of subclinical atherosclerosis. Individual participant data meta–analyses were used to determine the associations between adiposity phenotypes and CIMT in the pooled sample while adjusted multivariable linear regression analyses were used for site specific analyses.Results:Data were obtained from 9,010 adults (50.3% women and a mean age of 50± 6years). Men had higher levels of visceral fat than women while women had higher BMI, waist and hip circumference and subcutaneous fat than men at all sites except Burkina Faso. In the pooled analyses, BMI (β–value [95% CIs]: 19.5 [16.8, 22.3] μm) showed the strongest relationship with CIMT followed by VAT (5.86 [4.65, 7.07] μm), SCAT (5.00 [2.85, 7.15] μm), WC (1.27 [1.09, 1.44] μm) and HC (1.23 [1.04, 1.42] μm). Stronger associations were observed in men than in women.Conclusion:Obesity within SSA will likely result in higher levels of atherosclerosis and promote the occurrence of cardio- and cerebrovascular events, especially in males, unless addressed through primary prevention of obesity in both rural and urban communities across Africa. The inverse association of VAT with CIMT in Burkina Faso and Ghana requires further investigation.HighlightsAll adiposity phenotypes were positively associated with common carotid intima–media thickness (CIMT) in the entire cohort (pooled analyses).BMI had the strongest association with CIMT compared to other phenotypes.The magnitude of association between adiposity phenotypes and CIMT was higher in men than in women.Subcutaneous adipose tissue was inversely associated with CIMT only in women.An unexpected finding was the inverse association of visceral adipose tissue with CIMT in Burkina Faso and Ghana.

Study on the association between vitamin D and body fat distribution in children and adolescents

Objective: To investigate the association of vitamin D with distribution of body fat in children and adolescents. Methods: Data were obtained from the baseline survey of School-based Cardiovascular and Bone Health Promotion Program in 2017. Multiple linear regression and multinomial logistic regression models were applied to analyze the relationships of body mass index (BMI), fat mass index (FMI), trunk fat mass index (TFMI), appendicular fat mass index (AFMI), and visceral fat area(VFA) with vitamin D level and status in children and adolescents. Results: A total of 11 960 children and adolescents were included in the analysis (boys accounting for 49.7%). The average age and serum vitamin D level of study population were (11.0±3.3) years and (35.0±11.9) nmol/L, respectively. The deficiency rate of vitamin D was 37.2%. Gender-specific associations of BMI, FMI, TFMI, and AFMI with vitamin D level were found (P for interaction <0.05): they were inversely associated with vitamin D level in boys (BMI: β=-0.56; FMI: β =-0.59; TFMI: β=-0.60; AFMI: β=-0.59; all P<0.05), but not in girls (P>0.05). VFA was positively associated with vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in both boys and girls, and the risks of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency all increased by 17%(95%CI: 9%-25%) for per increment of standard deviation in VFA. Conclusions: The higher level of visceral fat was associated with the lower vitamin D levels in children. Abdominal obese children and boys with excessive body fat are the key population in the prevention and control of vitamin D deficiency.