Changes in vegetable and fruit intakes and effects on anthropometric outcomes in males and females

Aim To investigate associations between changes in vegetable and fruit (V&F) intakes and anthropometric indices (weight, BMI, % body fat, waist circumference), including differences by sex, during a dietary weight-loss intervention. Methods Adults (18-45 years) with overweight/obesity (BMI 25-35 kg/m(2)) entered a 10-week pre-post study, receiving individualised consults with an Accredited Practising Dietitian targeting increased V&F intakes. Dietary intake was assessed using 24-hour recalls and food frequency questionnaires. Linear mixed models were used to examine how much of the changes in anthropometric indices were explained by changes in V&F intakes. Sex differences were assessed by Wilcoxon rank sum tests. Results Of the 43 participants enrolled, 34 completed the study (53% female). Significant differences in energy intake and anthropometric indices were observed between males and females at baseline. After 10 weeks, females significantly reduced their weight (-2.9%,P< .01), BMI (-0.82 kg/m(2),P< .01), waist circumference (-1.70 cm,P< .01), energy intake (-824 kJ/day,P= .01) and improved diet quality (-14.0% energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods,P< .01). Males significantly reduced weight (-2.5%,P= .04), BMI (-0.76 kg/m(2),P= .03), waist circumference (-2.40 cm,P= .02), energy intake (-2875 kJ/day,P< .01), increased fruit intake (+0.89 serves/day,P= .02) and improved diet quality (-6% energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods,P< .01). Compared to the other sex, greater reductions were observed in energy intake in males and energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods in females. Linear mixed models identified that changes in V&F intakes did not explain the variation in anthropometric measures. Conclusion Future interventions may benefit from trialling sex tailored messages to enhance effects on anthropometric changes.

Automated summary

The study investigated associations between changes in vegetable and fruit intake and anthropometric indices, finding differences by sex in dietary quality and weight loss effects. Future interventions may benefit from tailored messages to enhance effects on anthropometric changes.