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THE IMPACT OF A 12-WEEK EDUCATION-BASED PROGRAM ON METABOLIC RISK FACTORS AND MENTAL HEALTH MEASURES

G Witherell

Abstract

Gabrielle Witherell. Elon University, Elon, NC.

BACKGROUND: Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is prevalent worldwide and is often associated with a decrease in measures of mental health. MetS is diagnosed when a person presents with at least 3 of the following risk factors: hypertension, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia and abdominal obesity. MetS is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. A group education program coupled with individual goal setting (HealthEYou) has been found effective in mediating the risk of MetS; however, its impact on mental health has not been explored. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of a 12-week nutrition and physical activity education program on reducing the risk of developing MetS and measures of mental health. METHODS: Faculty and staff at a small liberal arts institution will be recruited to participate in a 12-week education-based intervention program. Participants' weight, height, waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, triglyceride (TRY), total cholesterol (TC), and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels will be measured at baseline and upon completion of the 12-week intervention. In addition, participants will complete several questionnaires including 21-item Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and Quality of Life (QOL). The intervention program will include weekly 60-minute group education sessions and 15-minute individual sessions for goal setting. The program will consist of interactive sessions including mindful eating, meal planning, understanding nutrition labels, stress management, importance of sleep, mindfulness, physical activity, resistance exercise and other relevant content. Repeated measures analysis of variance will be used for statistical analysis. ANTICIPATED RESULTS: We anticipate that participants will gain necessary knowledge and motivation to make significant lifestyle changes that could lead to improvements in their overall health (physical and mental) and quality of life. FUNDING: Elon University Undergraduate Research Program and Faculty and Staff Wellness Initiative.

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