Page 139 - Go4it

very low dose of radiation. Besides this DXA is time-consuming, expensive; need trained operators and are hardly feasible in most dietetic settings. In contrast to DXA, bioelectrical impedance analyses (BIA) is a commonly used, safe and simple, portable, non-invasive, inexpensive technique that needs minimal operator training, making it appropriate for use in daily clinical practice. The BIA method is based on the conduction of electrical current in the body and differences in electrical conductivity between the fat and water components of the body. The electrical resistance and reactance together with body weight and height can reliably estimate body composition. In order to assess FFM with BIA, several FFM-BIA equations have been developed. Chapter 6 describes the validation of the BIA and the related FFM prediction equations (FFM-BIA) among obese adolescents compared to FFM measured by DXA (FFM-DXA). The most accurate and precise equation for FFM was the Gray equation, which predicted FFM accurately in 63% of obese adolescents. This is still not at an acceptable accuracy level. Thus, DXA measurement remains the method of choice for FFM in obese adolescents (Chapter 6).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the studies in this thesis demonstrated that the Go4it intervention showed a significant beneficial effect on BMIsds and quality of life at 18 months follow-up. Larger benefits were achieved among adolescents of western ethnicity: in this subgroup significant treatment effects were observed on BMIsds, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and HDL cholesterol level at 18 months follow up. Among the adolescents in the intervention group who complied well (attended ≥ 5 of the 7 Go4it sessions) a significant intervention effect on BMIsds, waist circumference and HDL was found at 18-months follow- up. Still we believe there are some adjustments needed to implement the Go4it intervention, such as better tailoring to non-western ethnicities, adding a physical activity program, and a location closer to their home environment to improve the results of the Go4it intervention.
Summary
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