Association Between Lifestyle and Hypertriglyceridemic Waist Phenotype in the PREDIMED-Plus Study

The hypertriglyceridemic waist (HTGW) phenotype is characterized by abdominal obesity and high levels of triglycerides. In a cross-sectional assessment of PREDIMED-Plus trial participants at baseline, HTGW phenotype prevalence was evaluated, associated risk factors were analyzed, and the lifestyle of individuals with metabolic syndrome and HTGW was examined.

A total of 6,874 individuals aged 55 to 75 with BMI ≥ 27 and < 40 kg/m² were included and classified by presence (HTGW⁺ ) or absence (HTGW^- ) of HTGW (waist circumference: men ≥ 102 cm, women ≥ 88 cm; fasting plasma triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dL). Analytical parameters and lifestyle (energy intake and expenditure) were analyzed.

A total of 38.2% of the sample met HTGW⁺ criteria. HTGW⁺ individuals tended to be younger, have a greater degree of obesity, be sedentary, and be tobacco users. They had higher peripheral glucose, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels; had lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels; and had increased prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) adherence and physical activity were greater in HTGW^- patients. Age, BMI, tobacco use, total energy expenditure, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and MedDiet adherence were associated with HTGW⁺ .

HTGW is a highly prevalent phenotype in this population associated with younger age, higher BMI, tobacco use, and decreased MedDiet adherence. HTGW^- individuals were more physically active with greater total physical activity, and fewer had hypertension.