The puzzle of self-reported weight gain in a month of fasting (Ramadan) among a cohort of Saudi families in Jeddah, Western Saudi Arabia
2011

Self-Reported Weight Gain During Ramadan Fasting in Saudi Families

Sample size: 173 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Bakhotmah Balkees Abed

Primary Institution: King Abdulaziz University

Hypothesis

Body weight will increase after Ramadan as a result of changes in lifestyle by Saudi families.

Conclusion

Weight gain and not weight loss was reported after Ramadan by Saudis, indicating a need for lifestyle and dietary modification programs.

Supporting Evidence

  • 59.5% of respondents reported weight gain after Ramadan.
  • 40% attributed weight gain to the types of foods consumed, which were rich in fat and carbohydrates.
  • 65.2% of those with increased expenditure reported weight gain.

Takeaway

Many families in Saudi Arabia reported gaining weight after Ramadan, even though they fasted. This shows that what they eat during Ramadan can lead to weight gain.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study using a pre-designed questionnaire administered to families of nutrition students.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in self-reported data regarding weight gain and dietary habits.

Limitations

The study was limited to a specific cohort of families in Jeddah and may not represent all Saudi families.

Participant Demographics

Participants included Saudi families, primarily represented by female nutrition students and their families.

Statistical Information

P-Value

<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1475-2891-10-84

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