Lipid profiles of obese children and adolescents before and after significant weight loss: differences according to sex.

BACKGROUND

Childhood obesity has been associated with elevated serum levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins (LDLs). We observed the lipid profiles of obese female subjects versus obese male subjects before and after significant weight loss.

METHODS

We studied 29 girls and 21 boys enrolled in a multidisciplinary weight reduction program.

RESULTS

Measures were taken at enrollment and at 10 weeks. Significant improvements were observed for changes in percentage of ideal body weight and total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. In addition, LDL decreased significantly in girls but not in boys.

CONCLUSIONS

A combination of diet, behavior modification, and exercise, is an effective instrument for lowering total cholesterol and triglyceride levels in obese children. In addition, girls tend to be more susceptible to a decrease in LDL level, which might result in an increased cardiovascular protective effect.