Relation between plasma antioxidant vitamin levels, adiposity and cardio-metabolic profile in adolescents: Effects of a multidisciplinary obesity programme

Summary Background & aims In vivo and in vitro evidence suggests that antioxidant vitamins and carotenoids may be key factors in the treatment and prevention of obesity and obesity-associated disorders. Hence, the objective of the present study was to determine the relationship between plasma lipid-soluble antioxidant vitamin and carotenoid levels and adiposity and cardio-metabolic risk markers in overweight and obese adolescents participating in a multidisciplinary weight loss programme. Methods A therapeutic programme was conducted with 103 adolescents aged 12–17 years old and diagnosed with overweight or obesity. Plasma concentrations of α-tocopherol, retinol, β-carotene and lycopene, anthropometric indicators of general and central adiposity, blood pressure and biochemical parameters were analysed at baseline and at 2 and 6 months of treatment. Results Lipid-corrected retinol ( P P  = 0.001) and α-tocopherol ( P P P P P P  = 0.001), β-carotene ( P  = 0.034) and lycopene ( P  = 0.019). Conclusions Plasma lipid-soluble antioxidant vitamin and carotenoid levels are associated with reduced adiposity, greater weight loss and an improved cardio-metabolic profile in overweight and obese adolescents.