The Effect of 9-Week Dietary Intervention on Anthropometric Parameters and Blood Pressure in Children with Excessive Body Weight.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: The prevalence of pediatric overweight and obesity is steadily increasing, posing a tremendous problem and challenge to public health. Various strategies have been undertaken to combat this issue with mixed results. This study aimed at assessing the effect of a 9-week dietary intervention on anthropometric measurements and blood pressure among children aged 7-12 years with excessive body weight.

METHODS

The main aim of the intervention was to improve the children's eating habits according to dietary guidelines for Polish children and adolescents with an individual approach and dietitian support. The intervention was completed by 68 children, 38 girls and 30 boys. Data on nutrition; anthropometrics, including body composition; and blood pressure were collected at baseline and after 3, 6, and 9 weeks of the dietary intervention.

RESULTS

The 9-week dietary intervention resulted in significant reductions in BMI z-score, fat mass, and body weight of 10.7%, 7.6%, and 4.0%, respectively. Blood pressure, especially diastolic blood pressure, also significantly decreased. Moreover, positive changes in dietary behaviors were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

A 9-week dietary intervention based on an appropriate, high-quality diet in line with the Healthy Eating Pyramid guidelines, with individual counselling and constant monitoring of the implemented changes, an individual approach, support from a dietitian, and the involvement of parents or guardians, can be an effective tool for starting to improve the diets and health of overweight children.