The implication of obesity on total antioxidant capacity in apparently healthy men and women: The ATTICA study

Abstract 

Background and aim

We evaluated the association of obesity with serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC), in a population-based sample of 3042 adults.

Methods and results

During 2001–2002 we randomly enrolled 1514 men (18–87years old) and 1528 women (18–89years old), from the Attica area in Greece into the study, and the sample was stratified by the age-sex distribution of the region (census 2001). Among several variables we also measured serum TAC and weight, height, waist and hip circumferences. Waist circumference greater than 102cm for men and 88cm for women was considered an indicator of central fat.

Methods and results

Mean waist circumference was 98±13cm in men and 84±22cm in women (P<0.001), while mean hip circumference was 106±28cm in men and 103±13cm in women (P<0.001). Central fat prevailed in 53% of men and 45% of women (P<0.001). Male participants with central fat exhibited 5% lower TAC concentrations compared to leaner individuals (214±35 vs. 226±33μmol/L, P=0.04) and female participants with central fat exhibited 7% lower TAC concentrations (256±38 vs. 239±27μmol/L, P=0.03). Similarly, obese or overweight male participants had 6% lower TAC concentrations compared to normal weight (217±33 vs. 234±39μmol/L, P=0.03) and female obese or overweight participants had 10% lower TAC concentrations (226±32 vs. 250±30μmol/L, P=0.02) compared to the others.

Conclusions

Our results suggest an inverse relationship between body fat, central adiposity and antioxidant capacity, irrespective of age and various other potential confounders, namely smoking, physical activity, dietary habits, blood pressure, glucose levels, and lipid concentrations.

Keywords: Obesity, Antioxidant