Association between lifestyle features and obesity phenotypes in adults from the Basque Country (Spain)

Lifestyle is related to the risk of obesity, but the relationship between different lifestyle features and obesity phenotypes remains unclear. This study analysed the association between different lifestyle features (eating habits, activity, sleep patterns, and tobacco and alcohol consumption), and four obesity phenotypes (overall and abdominal obesity, distribution and percentage of fat). The sample included 521 adults aged between 18 and 70 years. A multiple logistic regression model was used, controlling for sex, age and socioeconomic status. The duration of the main meal was inversely associated with overall and abdominal obesity (p < 0.01) whereas the number of meals was positively associated (p < 0.05). Regular sport practice and duration were negatively associated with all obesity phenotypes (p < 0.01), while watching television showed positive associations. Walking was inversely related to overall and abdominal obesity (p < 0.01), whereas sleep quality was positively associated with both phenotypes. Former smokers showed a positive relationship with both abdominal obesity (p = 0.021) and fat mass distribution (p = 0.002), and the number of cigarettes were positively related with all obesity phenotypes (p < 0.01), except with fat distribution. Alcohol consumption was inversely related with an excessive adiposity (p = 0.030), while occasional drinking was negatively related with overall obesity and an excess of fat. In conclusion, few meals per day, a bad or regular quality of sleep, many hours spent watching television and a heavy cigarette consumption significantly increased the risk of various obesity phenotypes, while time spent at the main meal, walking and sport practice, and a moderate alcohol consumption were associated with a decreased risk.