Effects of two popular weight loss programs on changes in body composition and visceral adipose tissue in women (LB296)

The purpose of this study was to determine if different types of exercise and diet interventions promote greater changes in visceral adipose tissue (VAT). 54 sedentary women (34±8 yrs, BMI 35±6) were randomized to participate in the Curves (C) or Weight Watchers (W) weight loss programs for 16-wks. Participants in the C program followed a 1,200 kcal/d diet for 1-wk and 1,500 kcal/d diet for 3 wks (30:45 CHO:PRO). Subjects then ingested 2,000 kcals/d for 2-wks (45:30 CHO:PRO) and repeated this diet while participating in the Curves with Zumba program 3-d-wk. Remaining subjects followed the W point-based diet program, received weekly counseling, and were encouraged to exercise. DEXA body composition with VAT was determined at 0 & 16 wks. MANOVA revealed a significant time (p<0.001) and group x time (p=0.035) effect. Both groups lost a similar amount of weight (W -6.3±4, C -4.8±4 kg, p=0.17), fat mass (W -3.1±6, C -5.9±6 kg, p=0.13), and VAT mass (W -98±468, C -240±445 g, p=0.26). Subjects in the C group...