Vol 13, Issue 3

Relationships Among Metabolic-Risk, Body Fatness, and Muscular Fitness in Young Obese Latino Children

April 1, 2020 - By 

Authors

Justin J. Merrigan, George Mason University
Sina Gallo, George Mason University
Jennifer B. Fields, George Mason University
Robyn Mehlenbeck, George Mason University
Margaret T. Jones, George Mason University
International Journal of Exercise Science 13(3): 488-500, 2020. 
DOI: 10.70252/KONI3658

Abstract

Given the high prevalence of obesity in Latino children and potential health risks, the purpose of this study was to: 1) evaluate relationships among metabolic-risk, fitness, and body fatness; 2) determine sex differences in cardio-metabolic risk factors and fitness of obese children of Latino descent. Sixty children (boys, n= 39, 7.8 ± 1.5 years; girls, n= 21, 7.2 ± 1.5 years; body mass index, 97.8 ± 2.5thpercentile) completed assessments of height, weight, and body fat, prior to fasted blood draws and a battery of fitness tests. Cardio-metabolic markers were analyzed, and a metabolic risk score created. Correlations and regression analyses evaluated the relationships among body fatness, metabolic-risk, and fitness. Independent samples t-tests determined sex differences (p < 0.05). Body fat related negatively to lower body power (p < 0.016), but positively to upper body power (p= 0.049). After controlling for age and sex, body fat (p< 0.001) was a positive predictor of variance in metabolic-risk scores, (R2 = 0.39, p < 0.001). Further, the association between body fat and metabolic-risk was not moderated by sex. Metabolic-risk scores and body fat were similar for both sexes, but boys performed better on muscular fitness tests, even after accounting for fat free mass (p < 0.05). Higher body fatness in obese Latino children may result in greater metabolic-risk and difficulty performing weight-bearing tasks. Therefore, culturally adapted weight management programs should employ a multifaceted approach to improve metabolic-risk and fitness.

Recommended Citation