Characteristics of a Group of Obese Tunisian People and Results of a Weight Management Intervention

Background and aims: Overweight and obesity are increasing worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine the characteristics of a group of obese and overweight Tunisian adults and the results of a weight management intervention Methods: this is a prospective study that included 58 Tunisian adults. at baseline, they undertook dietary intake assessment, arthrometric measurements and biological tests, then after 3 weeks of healthy diet and physical activity. Results: this study included 8 men and 50 women. The mean age was 44 years ±10.68. The mean BMI for men and women was respectively 37.86kg/m2±7.6 and 34.77kg/m2±4.77. Abdominal obesity affected all but one participant. Hyperglycemia affected 20.7% of participants, 43.1% had hypercholesterolaemia and 19% had hypertriglyceridemia. vitamin B1, folate and vitamin C intake was insufficient respectively in 82.8%, 75.9% and 89.7% of participants. More than 80% were not consuming enough calcium. An insufficiency in iron intake was observed in half participants. The body weight and BMI after 3 weeks were significantly lower than measurements at baseline, P=0.00. There was a nonsignificant beneficial effect on glycemia and lipidic profile. Conclusion: Overweight and obese people are subjects to obesity-related diseases and deficiencies in micronutrients. A persistent healthy lifestyle can reduce weight and related morbidities.