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A Randomized Controlled Trial of Precision Nutrition Counseling for Service Members at Risk for Metabolic Syndrome
Mary S McCarthy1, Zachary T Colburn1, Ka Yee Yeung2
1Center for Nursing Science & Clinical Inquiry, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA 98431, USA.
Military Medicine
|November 10, 2023
Summary
DNA-based nutrition counseling did not significantly reduce weight in military personnel. While initial progress was observed, weight loss was not sustained at 12 weeks, indicating limited efficacy for this intervention in metabolic syndrome risk reduction.
Area of Science:
- Military Health
- Nutritional Science
- Genetics
Background:
- Metabolic syndrome (MetS) poses a significant threat to military readiness and health.
- Key risk factors include high blood pressure, low HDL cholesterol, elevated triglycerides, abdominal obesity, and high fasting blood glucose.
- Precision nutrition and wellness apps show promise for weight management with high engagement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of DNA-based nutrition counseling in reducing MetS risk factors in active-duty military members.
- To assess changes in weight, biomarkers, and adherence to an eHealth application.
Main Methods:
- Prospective randomized controlled trial with 107 participants completing the study.
- Intervention group received dietitian-led counseling based on genetic sequencing and biomarkers; control group received pamphlets.
- Measurements included anthropometrics, blood pressure, and biomarkers at baseline and 12 weeks; eHealth app used for diet and activity tracking.
Main Results:
- No significant weight loss was observed between groups at 12 weeks.
- Prevalence of MetS decreased from 27% to 17.8%; high prevalence of genetic variants linked to obesity, cholesterol, and BP was noted.
- Low vitamin D levels were common, with 45% remaining insufficient post-study; eHealth app adherence was low.
Conclusions:
- DNA-based nutrition counseling was not effective for weight loss in this military population.
- Initial weight loss observed at 6 weeks was not sustained by 12 weeks.
- Further research is needed to optimize precision nutrition interventions for military health.
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