Effects of a Low Glycemic Index in Obese Children

Effects of a Low Glycemic Index Diet on Body Composition and Metabolic Syndrome Risks in Obese Thai Children: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The objective of this study is to compare the effectiveness of a low-GI diet program and a standard counseling program in the treatment of obese Thai children.

Obese children aged 9-16 years from King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital were randomized to receive instruction either for a low-GI diet (intervention group) or a low-calorie, low-fat diet (control group). Both groups were followed-up every month for six months. The primary outcomes were body composition changes during the six-month period, measured by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Secondary outcomes were metabolic syndrome risk changes measured by fasting plasma glucose, insulin, and lipid profiles.

The adherence to the nutritional education and physical activity recommendation was evaluated by using three-day dietary records (two weekdays and one weekend day) and a physical activity questionnaire at each visit. All participants were examined and counseled about physical activity and life style modification strategies by a pediatrician at every visit.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Children aged between nine to sixteen years old
• BMI higher than the International Obesity Task Force cut-off

Exclusion Criteria:

• psychological problems
• underlying diseases that might affect a weight management program
• used drugs associated with weight increment or reduction
• attended other weight management programs