The effect of body composition on blood lipids, leptin, bone mineral density, and nutrition in females

OBJECTIVE: To study the effect of body composition on blood lipids, leptin, bone mineral density, and nutrition in females.

METHODS: One hundred and thirty-one fourth-year females students studying at the Faculty of Vocational Education, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey, during the year 2006, were determined for their body composition. Their anthropometric measurements, blood lipids, leptin levels, and bone mineral densities were measured. Moreover, 24-hour reminder method was used to determine their state of nutrition.

RESULTS: The total cholesterol (p=0.002), triglyceride (p=0.00), low-density lipoprotein LDL cholesterol (p=0.004), very LDL cholesterol (p=0.000), total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein HDL cholesterol (p=0.000), LDL cholesterol/HDL cholesterol (p=0.000) and leptin (p=0.000) levels were found to be lower among the thin than the normal-weight and the overweight, whereas the HDL cholesterol (p=0.277) level was found higher. The bone mineral density of the overweight participants were higher than the thin (p<0.001). Significant correlations were determined between the body composition and blood lipids, leptin, and bone mineral density (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION: According to the results, being at the required weight has a positive effect on blood lipids, leptin, and bone mass. To better understand this relationship, further studies are needed.