Changes in vegetable and fruit intakes and effects on anthropometric outcomes in males and females

To investigate associations between changes in vegetable and fruit (V&F) intakes and anthropometric indices (weight, BMI, % body fat, waist circumference), including differences by sex, during a dietary weight-loss intervention.

Adults (18-45 years) with overweight/obesity (BMI 25-35 kg/m² ) entered a 10-week pre-post study, receiving individualised consults with an Accredited Practising Dietitian targeting increased V&F intakes. Dietary intake was assessed using 24-hour recalls and food frequency questionnaires. Linear mixed models were used to examine how much of the changes in anthropometric indices were explained by changes in V&F intakes. Sex differences were assessed by Wilcoxon rank sum tests.

Of the 43 participants enrolled, 34 completed the study (53% female). Significant differences in energy intake and anthropometric indices were observed between males and females at baseline. After 10 weeks, females significantly reduced their weight (-2.9%, P < .01), BMI (-0.82 kg/m² , P < .01), waist circumference (-1.70 cm, P < .01), energy intake (-824 kJ/day, P = .01) and improved diet quality (-14.0% energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods, P < .01). Males significantly reduced weight (-2.5%, P = .04), BMI (-0.76 kg/m² , P = .03), waist circumference (-2.40 cm, P = .02), energy intake (-2875 kJ/day, P < .01), increased fruit intake (+0.89 serves/day, P = .02) and improved diet quality (-6% energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods, P < .01). Compared to the other sex, greater reductions were observed in energy intake in males and energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods in females. Linear mixed models identified that changes in V&F intakes did not explain the variation in anthropometric measures.

Future interventions may benefit from trialling sex tailored messages to enhance effects on anthropometric changes.