Physical Activity and Weight Gain in African-Origin Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Davies Jessica C., Choo-Kang Candice, Soepnel Larske, Geffen Hayli, Africa Chad, Mtintsilana Asanda, Bovet Pascal, Viswanathan Bharathi, Bedu-Addo Kweku, Boateng Prince Oti, Apusiga Kingsley, Dei Oscar Akunor, Forrester Terrence E., Williams Marie, Lambert Estelle V., Rae Dale E., Sinyanya Nandipha, Layden Brian T., Gilbert Jack A., Ecklu-Mensah Gertrude, Joyce Cara, Luke Amy, Dugas Lara R.
Primary Institution: University of Cape Town
Hypothesis
Does moderate-to-vigorous physical activity attenuate weight gain among African-origin adults over time?
Conclusion
The study found that while higher levels of physical activity were associated with lower body weight, they did not prevent weight gain over an 8-year period.
Supporting Evidence
- Obesity prevalence increased from 27.5% to 38.0% over 8 years.
- Every additional 30 minutes of MVPA was associated with a 600g lower body weight.
- Weight increased by an average of 2.61kg at follow-up, regardless of MVPA.
Takeaway
Even if you exercise a lot, it doesn't always stop you from gaining weight over time.
Methodology
The study used accelerometers to measure physical activity and followed participants over 8 years to assess weight change.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to seasonal variations in measurements and the exclusion of certain demographics.
Limitations
Participants may not represent their countries, and the study did not include nutrition data.
Participant Demographics
Participants were adults aged 25-55 from Ghana, South Africa, Jamaica, Seychelles, and the US.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.04
Confidence Interval
0.04–1.22
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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