Abstract:

Background and Aim: The hypertriglyceridemic waist (HTW) phenotype proposed as a diagnostic tool for visceral obesity and also lipid accumulation product (LAP) is a simple index for lipid over-accumulation in adults.  Phytochemicals are known as bioactive non-nutrient plant chemicals found in high amounts in fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts and legumes. The aim of our study is determination of the phytochemical index (PI) score effect on the incidence of hypertriglyceridemic waist (HTW) phenotype and lipid accumulation product (LAP) index in adults.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted within the framework of third phase of Tehran lipid and glucose study 2006–2008. Dietary data were collected using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire with 168 food items. The PI was calculated based on the modified method developed by McCarty. The odds ratio of occurrence of HTW phenotype was calculated across PI quartile categories.

Results: The mean PI was 53.3±15.2. Mean LAP was 34.6±22.6 at baseline, and 43.2±29.9 after 3 years. Mean WC at baseline and 3-year changes were 87.2±13.2 and 4.9±7.1 cm, respectively. After adjustment for potential confounders, dietary PI were inversely associated with changes in waist circumference (&beta;= -0.08, p<0.01), serum triglycerides (&beta;= -0.07, p<0.01) and LAP (&beta;= -0.09, p<0.01) after 3 years. Risk for occurrence of HTW phenotype in participants with highest compared to lowest dietary PI was significantly reduced (OR=0.5, 95% CI= 0.26-0.96)..

&zwj;Conclusion: Higher phytochemical intake is associated with lower occurrence of HTW phenotype.