Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
9.2
4.8
Journals
Nutrients
Special Issues
Effects of Nutrition and Physical Activity Lifestyle Interventions on Childhood...
nutrients-logo
Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Nutrients Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

► Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser
share announcement

Effects of Nutrition and Physical Activity Lifestyle Interventions on Childhood Obesity

A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Nutrition and Obesity".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 5 February 2025 | Viewed by 6675

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Ahmad Alkhatib

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
College of Life Sciences, Birmingham City University, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3TN, UK
Interests: diets or nutritional supplements across the lifespan; lifestyle interventions, especially to prevent diabetes and cardiovascular disease; obesity prevention strategies in children and adolescents; cellular physiological mechanisms determining adaptations to exercise training or nutritional supplementation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Childhood obesity continues to increase globally in both developed and developing countries, leading to debilitating chronic diseases. Chilldhood obesity has quadrupled in the last four decades, and obesity complications and comorbidities are no longer adult diseases, but are becoming highly prevalent among children and adolescents, especially diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver and cardiorespiratory diseases. Interventions at all levels are needed, especially lifestyle-related interventions.

This Special Issue aims to bring research on lifestyle obesity interventions to the forefront. Nutritional eating behaviour and physical activity are the two modifiable factors towards a disease-free life. Interventions aimed at modifying diets, nutritional supplementation, alone or with modifying physical activity or exercise, are a contemporary scientific issue across the lifespan from childhood to older age. Therefore, we welcome submissions in any of these areas, including understanding obesity determinants in early years and intervention physical activity/exercise approaches.  

Childhood obesity-preventative interventionsions the home, school, healthcare and community settings can be effective. Evidence suggests that interventions must target the appropriate developmental stage and ideally include multiple components (e.g, nutrition and physical activity) and settings or levels (e.g., family, school, policy, neighbourhood environment). Obesity interventions help ameliorate physiological-based risks of obesity, including metabolic, hormonal and immunological adversities.

All study types (clinical and randomised trials, physiological, behavioural and psycho-social) and designs (interventions, epidemiology, cross-sectional, modelling) are welcome.

Prof. Dr. Ahmad Alkhatib
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Nutrients is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • obesity
  • weight loss
  • nutrition
  • supplement
  • diet
  • children and adolescents
  • health behavior
  • lifestyle
  • school
  • intervention
  • diabetes
  • cardiovascular
  • metabolic
  • disease
  • chronic disease

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • e-Book format: Special Issues with more than 10 articles can be published as dedicated e-books, ensuring wide and rapid dissemination.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue polices can be found here.

Published Papers (6 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

16 pages, 322 KiB  
Article
Correlates of Overweight and Obesity in German Primary School Children
by Anna Reißner, Olivia Wartha, Jens Dreyhaupt and Susanne Kobel
Nutrients 2024, 16(23), 3987; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16233987 - 21 Nov 2024
Viewed by 211
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Childhood obesity is a consistent public health issue, which often persists into adulthood. This study determined risk factors of childhood obesity and associated comorbidities in German school children. Methods: Data of 1956 primary school children (7.1 ± 0.6 years) were analysed. Anthropometrics [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Childhood obesity is a consistent public health issue, which often persists into adulthood. This study determined risk factors of childhood obesity and associated comorbidities in German school children. Methods: Data of 1956 primary school children (7.1 ± 0.6 years) were analysed. Anthropometrics were taken on site, other (health) parameters were assessed using a parental questionnaire. Binary logistic regression models were calculated, controlling for age, gender, family education level, and migration background. Results: Father’s physical illness (OR 1.092 [1.177; 3.073], p = 0.009) and a child’s chronic illness (OR 1.687 [1.077; 2.644], p = 0.022), maternal and paternal overweight (OR 2.180 [1.492; 3.185]; OR 2.494 [1.547; 4.022], p < 0.001, respectively), as well as maternal and paternal smoking (OR 1.942 [1.306; 2.889]; OR 1.972 [1.334; 2.917], p = 0.001, respectively) were significantly associated with the child being overweight. Also associated with the child being overweight were physical activity, regular screen media use (OR 0.605 [0.408, 0.896], p = 0.012; OR 2.029 [1.306; 3.152], p = 0.002, respectively), the mother and/or father thinking their child is too fat (OR 2.213 [1.504; 3.258], p < 0.001; OR 1.537 [1.048; 2.253], p = 0.028), the father’s physical inactivity (OR 1.69 [1.133; 2.521], p = 0.010), and if the child has not been breastfed (OR 1.632 [1.056; 2.521], p = 0.027), the mother smoked during pregnancy (OR 1.992 [1.224; 3.246], p = 0.006) as well as if the mother and/or father admonished their child about their weight (OR 25.521 [14.578; 44.680]; OR 19.448 [11.865; 31.877], p < 0.001, respectively). Children of unemployed mothers and in low-income households had an increased risk of being overweight (OR 4.811 [1.642; 14.096], p = 0.004; OR 2.203 [1.360; 3.568], p = 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: This study shows that parental health, lifestyle, and social behaviours matter in determining childhood obesity. Understanding those is essential to promoting a healthy lifestyle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Nutrition and Physical Activity Lifestyle Interventions on Childhood Obesity)
14 pages, 605 KiB  
Article
Effects of Responsiveness and Responsibility Parenting Factors on Family Mealtime Outcomes in Overweight African American Adolescents
by Haylee Loncar, Allison M. Sweeney, Taylor White, Mary Quattlebaum and Dawn K. Wilson
Nutrients 2024, 16(22), 3874; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16223874 - 13 Nov 2024
Viewed by 369
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Family meals have been shown to be an important protective factor for positive health outcomes. This study assessed the associations of parenting factors with family mealtime among overweight African American adolescents over a period of 4 months. It was hypothesized that increases [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Family meals have been shown to be an important protective factor for positive health outcomes. This study assessed the associations of parenting factors with family mealtime among overweight African American adolescents over a period of 4 months. It was hypothesized that increases in warm and responsive parenting (parental responsiveness, parental responsibility) would be associated with increased frequency and quality of family mealtimes, while more demanding and controlling parenting (parental demandingness, parental monitoring) would be associated with a reduced frequency and quality of family mealtimes over time. Methods: Data from baseline to 16 weeks were collected from 241 African American adolescent–parent dyads (adolescent: Mage = 12.8 ± 1.7 years; 64% female; MBMI%= 96.6 ± 4.2) that participated in the Families Improving Together (FIT) for Weight Loss randomized controlled trial. Results: Multilevel models revealed significant positive main effects of parental responsiveness and parental responsibility (p < 0.05) on the increased frequency of family meals (p < 0.01). Significant two-way interactions also showed that parental responsiveness (p < 0.05) predicted improved quality of family mealtimes, whereas parental demandingness (p < 0.01) predicted reduced quality of family mealtimes from baseline to 16 weeks. Conclusions: Results from this study have important implications for African American adolescent obesity prevention and future family-based intervention program guidelines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Nutrition and Physical Activity Lifestyle Interventions on Childhood Obesity)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1865 KiB  
Article
Lifestyle Behaviours in Pre-Schoolers from Southern Spain—A Structural Equation Model According to Sex and Body Mass Index
by Gracia Cristina Villodres, Rosario Padial-Ruz, José-Antonio Salas-Montoro and José Joaquín Muros
Nutrients 2024, 16(21), 3582; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16213582 - 22 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1007
Abstract
Objectives: The present study aimed to examine the relationship between screen time (ST), sleep time (SLT), physical fitness (PF), Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence, eating behaviours, and body mass index (BMI) in a sample of pre-schoolers from Granada (Spain). In order to address this [...] Read more.
Objectives: The present study aimed to examine the relationship between screen time (ST), sleep time (SLT), physical fitness (PF), Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence, eating behaviours, and body mass index (BMI) in a sample of pre-schoolers from Granada (Spain). In order to address this aim, an explanatory model was developed to examine existing relationships between ST, SLT, PF, MD, pro-intake (PRO-I) and anti-intake (ANT-I) behaviours, and BMI. Further, the proposed structural model was examined via multi-group analysis as a function of sex and BMI. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 653 three- to six-year-old pre-schoolers attending 18 different schools invited to take part in the present study. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was employed to analyse relationships between study variables as a function of sex and BMI. Results: SEM analysis revealed negative associations between ST and PF (p < 0.005), ST and MD adherence (p < 0.005), ST and SLT (p < 0.005), MD adherence and ANT-I behaviours (p < 0.005), and MD adherence and BMI (p = 0.033). In contrast, positive associations emerged between SLT and MD adherence (p < 0.005), and PRO-I behaviours and BMI (p < 0.005). SEM revealed differences according to sex and BMI. Conclusions: The study highlights significant relationships between lifestyle behaviours and physical and dietary outcomes in pre-schoolers from southern Spain, with variations based on sex and BMI. These findings suggest the need for interventions aimed at reducing ST and promoting better sleep, PF, and dietary habits in order to limit weight-related and general health risks in pre-schoolers from southern Spain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Nutrition and Physical Activity Lifestyle Interventions on Childhood Obesity)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 2164 KiB  
Article
A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Loss versus Gain Incentives to Improve Adherence to an Obesity Treatment Intervention in Adolescents
by Robert M. Siegel, Christopher Kist, Shelley Kirk, Roohi Kharofa, Kristin Stackpole, Amanda Sammons, Linda Dynan, Meghan E. McGrady, JangDong Seo, Elaine Urbina and Nadine A. Kasparian
Nutrients 2024, 16(19), 3363; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16193363 - 3 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1284
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Adherence to pediatric obesity treatment can be challenging. Monetary incentives improve adherence to lifestyle interventions, with incentives framed as loss often more effective than those framed as gain. The objectives of this study were to determine if monetary incentives in the form [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Adherence to pediatric obesity treatment can be challenging. Monetary incentives improve adherence to lifestyle interventions, with incentives framed as loss often more effective than those framed as gain. The objectives of this study were to determine if monetary incentives in the form of gift cards would improve adherence to an obesity treatment intervention and whether framing the incentive as either loss or gain affected adherence. Methods: Sixty adolescents with obesity (body mass index of ≥95th percentile for age and sex) were recruited from our pediatric obesity treatment program. They were randomized into one of three groups and given a monthly adherence score (AS) of up to 100 points. These points were based on completing a medical visit, reporting on diet intake, and measuring daily steps on a wearable tracker. The Gain Group (GG), N = 20, started each month with USD 0 in a virtual account and increased their monetary reward up to USD 100 depending on AS. The Loss Group (LG), N = 21, began each month with USD 100 in their virtual account, which decreased based on adherence. The Control Group (CG), N = 19, received USD 10 monthly. Results: Adherence was highest in the GG, with 66.0 points, compared to the LG, with 54.9 points, and CG, with 40.6 points, with p < 0.01. The GG had greater adherence to their step goal (14.6) and dietary reporting (18.7) compared to the LG (10.0 and 13.9) and the CG (3.9 and 8.1), p < 0.005. Conclusions: Gain-framed incentives are superior to loss-framed ones in improving adherence to pediatric obesity treatments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Nutrition and Physical Activity Lifestyle Interventions on Childhood Obesity)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

28 pages, 944 KiB  
Review
Orthorexia as an Eating Disorder Spectrum—A Review of the Literature
by Izabela Łucka, Artur Mazur, Anna Łucka, Izabela Sarzyńska, Julia Trojniak and Marta Kopańska
Nutrients 2024, 16(19), 3304; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16193304 - 29 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1278
Abstract
Background: The purpose of this study is to compare and analyze research studies focused on orthorexia nervosa (ON) as a spectrum of eating disorders, and to summarize potential risk factors in different age and social groups. ON is characterized by an obsession with [...] Read more.
Background: The purpose of this study is to compare and analyze research studies focused on orthorexia nervosa (ON) as a spectrum of eating disorders, and to summarize potential risk factors in different age and social groups. ON is characterized by an obsession with healthy eating, which leads to a restrictive diet and health problems. Methods: Due to a lack of comprehensive analyses, this review re-examined studies from 2006 to 2023, initially retrieving 53,134 articles. Upon refining the criteria and risk factors for eating disorders, 34 notable records were identified. These studies employed diagnostic tools such as ORTO and BOT, focusing on risk factors for ON. Results: Results indicate that individuals suffering from eating disorders, losing weight, exercising heavily, developing relationship problems, and suffering from body dysmorphic disorder are at high risk of developing ON. A significant correlation was found between ON, BMI, and gender, but not between ON and OCD. Interestingly, ON symptoms appear to overlap with those of other eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia, especially in terms of obsessive control over dieting and fear of gaining weight, indicating a close relationship between the two. Conclusions: Interestingly, orthorexia nervosa may serve as a coping mechanism for anorexia, providing a sense of control. However, further research on its long-term effects is required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Nutrition and Physical Activity Lifestyle Interventions on Childhood Obesity)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 976 KiB  
Review
Childhood Obesity and Its Comorbidities in High-Risk Minority Populations: Prevalence, Prevention and Lifestyle Intervention Guidelines
by Ahmad Alkhatib and George Obita
Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1730; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111730 - 31 May 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1911
Abstract
The prevalence of childhood obesity and its associated comorbidities is a growing global health problem that disproportionately affects populations in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and minority ethnicities in high-income countries (HICs). The increased childhood obesity disparities among populations reflect two concerns: one [...] Read more.
The prevalence of childhood obesity and its associated comorbidities is a growing global health problem that disproportionately affects populations in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and minority ethnicities in high-income countries (HICs). The increased childhood obesity disparities among populations reflect two concerns: one is HICs’ ineffective intervention approaches in terms of lifestyle, nutrition and physical activity in minority populations, and the second is the virtually non-existent lifestyle obesity interventions in LMICs. This article provides guidelines on childhood obesity and its comorbidities in high-risk minority populations based on understanding the prevalence and effectiveness of preventative lifestyle interventions. First, we highlight how inadequate obesity screening by body mass index (BMI) can be resolved by using objective adiposity fat percentage measurements alongside anthropometric and physiological components, including lean tissue and bone density. National healthcare childhood obesity prevention initiatives should embed obesity cut-off points for minority ethnicities, especially Asian and South Asian ethnicities within UK and USA populations, whose obesity-related metabolic risks are often underestimated. Secondly, lifestyle interventions are underutilised in children and adolescents with obesity and its comorbidities, especially in minority ethnicity population groups. The overwhelming evidence on lifestyle interventions involving children with obesity comorbidities from ethnic minority populations shows that personalised physical activity and nutrition interventions are successful in reversing obesity and its secondary cardiometabolic disease risks, including those related to cardiorespiratory capacity, blood pressure and glucose/insulin levels. Interventions combining cultural contextualisation and better engagement with families are the most effective in high-risk paediatric minority populations but are non-uniform amongst different minority communities. A sustained preventative health impact can be achieved through the involvement of the community, with stakeholders comprising healthcare professionals, nutritionists, exercise science specialists and policy makers. Our guidelines for obesity assessment and primary and secondary prevention of childhood obesity and associated comorbidities in minority populations are fundamental to reducing global and local health disparities and improving quality of life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Nutrition and Physical Activity Lifestyle Interventions on Childhood Obesity)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-6
Back to TopTop