Abstract Panel


Authors Information
SequenceTypeName TitleFirst NameLast NameDepartmentInstitute / Affiliation
1 Author Ms. Flora Rabha Anthropology Gauhati University
2 Author Dr. Gulrukh Begum Anthropology Gauhati University
Abstract Information
TrackID
:
IUAES23_ABS_I2716
Abstract Theme
:
PT153 - Voices from the Margins
Abstract Title
:
Does an Active Lifestyle Alone Maintain Normal Nutritional Status and Body Composition? A study among the Garo Women of Kamrup District, Assam, North East India.
Short Abstract
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An active lifestyle is an important component in weight control. Studies have shown significant correlation between high physical fitness and a low body fat. The rural Garo women lead a physically active lifestyle as they remain busy during the day in agriculture activities. The objective of this study is to see whether physical activity is correlated with normal body mass index, normal waist circumference and normal body fat percentage among the physically active Garo women.
Long Abstract
:

An active lifestyle is an important component in weight control. Studies have shown significant correlation between high physical fitness and a low body fat. This study is done among the Garo women of Kamrup district Assam. The Garos are a matrilineal tribe of Northeast India residing in both states of Meghalaya and Assam. The rural Garo women lead a physically active lifestyle as they remain busy during the day working in their orchards which are in the foothills or in their own homestead gardens. The objective of this study is to see whether physical activity is correlated with normal nutritional status and body composition among the Garo women. This cross sectional study was undertaken on 862 Garo women of Kamrup district, Assam. Women from the age group 18 – 70 years were included in the study. These women are all physically active – moderate or vigorous, till their old age. Physical activity data was collected using Global Physical Activity questionnaire by World Health Organisation (WHO). Nutritional status and body composition indicators considered for the study are Body Mass Index, Waist Circumference and Body Fat Percentage. 54% women reported to perform Vigorous activity and 46% women performed moderate activity. Overweight was observed in 27% vigorous activity performers and 23% moderate activity performers. As per body fat percentage, 31% with obesity performed vigorous activity and 20% performed moderate activity. Overall the study suggested that physical activity alone cannot maintain normal Body Mass Index and body fat percentage among the Garo women, but it can reduce the risk of obesity related diseases such as type 2 diabetes, Cardiovascular diseases and high blood pressure. Other factors such as genetics and food intake may be responsible for the prevalence of overall high obesity and central adiposity among the Garo women.  

Abstract Keywords
:
Physical Activity, Obesity, Garo women