Analysis of the body composition of young adults and the frequency of occurrence of so-called normal weight obesity: A pilot study

Abstract

nad-Abstract Background. In people with normal body mass and increased content of visceral fat, the same metabolic disorders occur as in obese people, including insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome features. Objectives. The aim of the study was to analyze the components of the body composition of young adults, the occurrence of so-called normal weight obesity (metabolic obese normal-weight – MONW) and the presence of excessive body fat in individuals with normal BMI. Material and methods. The survey and anthropometric measurements (TANITA MC-780) were conducted in a group of 100 students of Wroclaw Medical University (48 men, 52 women) aged 18–26. Results. In the study group, the average BMI of women was higher than men, but the difference was not statistically significant ( p > 0.05). There were no dif-ferences in the incidence of underweight, normal body weight and obesity depending on sex ( p > 0.05). The occurrence of overweight (BMI from 25 to 29.99) was significantly higher in female students ( p = 0.0039). The average percentage of adipose tissue was statistically insignificantly higher in women ( p > 0.05). Among 7 people in whom the percentage of adipose tissue was higher than desired, the correct BMI was found in 2 people and BMI indicating overweight in 4 people. In 100% the participants of the study had the medium level of visceral fat (0–13). Conclusions. Most of young adults (73%) have a correct BMI. Overweight is more common in women. The percentage of adipose tissue was higher than desired in 7% of respondents. Identifying the people with an increased risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome enables the development and planning of preventive measures addressed to young adults.