The effect of non-exercise activity thermogenesis on subjects with metabolic syndrome - A proof of concept study in Qatar

Samer Hammoudeh, Abdulbari Bener, Mahmoud Zirie, Abdullah Al-Hamaq, Prem Chandra, Olivia Moses, Hildemar Dos Santos, Serena Tonstad

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of metabolic abnormalities that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Total human energy expenditure is divided into three major components; resting metabolic rate, thermic effect of food, and activity thermogenesis which is divided into exercise and non exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT). In this study, NEAT was used as a lifestyle intervention on subjects with metabolic syndrome. 200 eligible patients from the Diabetes and Endocrinology Department at Hamad Medical Hospital in Doha, Qatar were assigned to an intervention (n = 100) or control (n = 100) group and followed for one year. The intervention group was advised to practice NEAT enhancing activities, while the control group was not advised about NEAT. Measurements of waist circumference, weight, BMI, blood pressure, glucose and lipid profile were assessed at baseline, six months and 1 year. After 1 year 52 intervention and 55 control subjects completed the study. The results revealed no statistically significant differences in metabolic syndrome components between the two randomized groups. The amount of recommended NEAT activity appears to have been too small to influence study outcomes. Future studies in similar populations may need to consider the high dropout rate, and use of incentives or other interventions to increase compliance and retention.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)12-18
Number of pages7
JournalQatar Medical Journal
Volume2013
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 1 2013

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • General Medicine

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