The Effect of Mediterranean Diet and High-Intensity Interval Training on Lipid Profile and HbA1c Level among Overweight and Obese Female Population

Abstract

Background: Dyslipidemia and impaired glucose tolerance are often associated with obesity and cardiovascular diseases. Based on beneficial effects of Mediterranean Diet (MD) and High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on cardiovascular risk factors, the present study aimed to assess these effects on serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and hemoglobin (Hb) A1C of overweight and obese female population. Methods: Forty-seven participants, with an average age of 34.43±7.22 years were assigned to four groups of MD, HIIT, MD+HIIT, and a control group. The interventions lasted 8 weeks, MD was without calorie restriction and HIIT exercise was on a cycle ergometer. Lipid profile of TC, TG, HDL-C, and LDL-C, and HbA1C were measured before and after all interventions. Results: HbA1C exhibited a significant decrease in all intervention groups. A significant decrease in total cholesterol was observed in MD+HIIT group. Changes in TG, HDL-C, and LDL-C were not significant in any of the groups. Conclusion: HbA1c was more responsive to MD and HIIT, while lipid profile exhibited greater resistance to any change. Despite non-significant modifications, MD+HIIT had the most favorable effects on LDL-C and TG levels.

Keywords

• lipid profile
• high intensity interval training
• mediterranean diet
• obesity
• overweight