The objective of this study is to compare the effectiveness of a low-GI diet program and a standard counseling program in the treatment of obese Thai children.
Obese children aged 9-16 years from King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital were randomized to receive instruction either for a low-GI diet (intervention group) or a low-calorie, low-fat diet (control group). Both groups were followed-up every month for six months. The primary outcomes were body composition changes during the six-month period, measured by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Secondary outcomes were metabolic syndrome risk changes measured by fasting plasma glucose, insulin, and lipid profiles. The adherence to the nutritional education and physical activity recommendation was evaluated by using three-day dietary records (two weekdays and one weekend day) and a physical activity questionnaire at each visit. All participants were examined and counseled about physical activity and life style modification strategies by a pediatrician at every visit.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
70
Conventional behavioural lifestyle modification instructions x 1/month for 6 months about low-calorie (approximately 1200-1300 kcal/day), low-fat (25% of total calories from fat) and about physical activity (increase non-weight bearing exercise 30 minutes/day at least x 3 times/week, increase physical activity in their routine and decrease sedentary activity).
Experimental behavioural lifestyle modification instructions x 1/month for 6 months about low glycaemic index diet (selection of low-GI carbohydrates with the caloric distribution of carbohydrate 50-55%: protein 15-20%: fat 30-35%, instruction by two-hour small classes with parental participation low GI cooking demonstration and food labeling guidance) and about physical activity (increase non-weight bearing exercise 30 minutes/day at least x 3/week, increase physical activity in their routine and decrease sedentary activity).
Chulalongkorn University
Patumwan, Bangkok, Thailand
Change from baseline in body composition measured by BIA and DEXA at month 6
Time frame: 6 months
Change from baseline in metabolic syndrome risks at month 6
Metabolic syndrome risks are fasting blood sugar, insulin and lipid profiles.
Time frame: 6 months
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