Improved Plasma FFA/Insulin Homeostasis Is Independently Associated With Improved Glucose Tolerance After a 1-Year Lifestyle Intervention in Viscerally Obese Men

OBJECTIVE Elevated plasma free fatty acids (FFAs) are one important link between excess visceral adiposity, insulin resistance, and the development of type 2 diabetes. Effects of lifestyle interventions on FFA metabolism are poorly known. This open-label study was conducted to test the effects of a 1-year healthy eating/physical activity intervention program on plasma FFA homeostasis in 117 viscerally obese men with dyslipidemia associated with insulin resistance (waist circumference ≥90 cm, triglycerides ≥1.69 mmol/L, and/or HDL-cholesterol <1.03 mmol/L).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Body weight, body composition, and fat distribution were assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry/computed tomography. Oral loads of lipid (60 g fat/m² body surface area) and glucose (75 g) were measured before and after the intervention. Read more