Effect of the Mediterranean Diet on BMI in Middle-Aged Hispanic Women with Pre-Obesity and Obesity Central Washington State

Abstract

Background: Conclusive evidence has yet to emerge regarding the effectiveness and applicability of the Mediterranean diet on middle-aged Hispanic women, the largest female minority group in the United States who is at-risk of metabolic disorders. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of the Mediterranean diet (MED) on the BMI in middle-aged Hispanic women with pre-obesity and obesity in Central Washington State. Design: A prospective study was performed to determine the effect of Mediterranean diet on the BMI of 67 Hispanic women with pre-obesity and obesity between 45 to 65 years of age in Central Washington State. The study was carried out for eight weeks. Dietary adherence was monitored to ensure consistent results. Results: The proportion of Hispanic women who reported a reduction in BMI was 94%, with a decrease in mean BMI after eight weeks of 2.8 (95% CI: 2.5 to 3.0) and P = 0.02, with an odds ratio of 2.6. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to adjust for age, education, physical activity, and smoking. Conclusion: The reduction in BMI demonstrates that the Mediterranean diet can be a promising, culturally appropriate therapy to address the obesity epidemic that is prevalent among Hispanic women.