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Abstract

Introduction: Obesity and its associated health problems such as cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers, and diabetes are the biggest public health concerns today. A balanced diet and regular exercise are vital for the prevention and treatment of obesity-related health issues. Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids appear to lower risk factors for cardio-metabolic disorders. Method: A case-control study was undertaken to provide community residents with nutrition and exercise counseling. Blood samples to assess lipid profiles, comprehensive diet history, physical activity level, and anthropometric data were obtained to study the effect of omega-3 fatty acids and exercise on risk factors associated with cardio-metabolic risk markers. Paired-sample t-test was used to test the significance of the differences between pre- and post-intervention measures. Results: Significant changes were observed in most of the cardio-metabolic indicators. An average of 1.1 unit decrease in Body Mass Index (BMI) and 1.0 unit in body fat was observed in pre- and post-intervention measures (p<0.001). The intervention also resulted in a statistically significant decline in body weight (mean decrease=7.2 lbs.; p=0.000). An average reduction of 3.9 inches in waist circumference and 2.9 inches in hip circumference demonstrates significant effect of diet and exercise intervention (p<0.000 for both measures). Discussion: One of the most effective ways to reduce cardio-metabolic associated disease risk is to induce weight loss. Diet and exercise counseling are effective tools to promote behavior changes that result in weight loss. These findings strengthen evidence that health professionals can utilize effective non-invasive strategies to reduce chronic disease risk associated with obesity.

Biography

Suman Ahuja has completed a PhD in Clinical/Medical nutrition with an emphasis on obesity treatment and prevention. Presently, she is designing an obesity and cardiovascular treatment and prevention laboratory in Jefferson City, MO. She has published several peer reviewed articles in scientific journals in addition to popular global websites like yahoo health. She is also the recipient of several grants from entities such as the USDA. Her primary work involves treatment and prevention of obesity in addition to investigation biomarkers such as leptin, ghrelin, insulin, and cortisol. She has collaborated with faculty across the globe on several clinical projects.

Email: as2095@columbia.edu