COMPREHENSIVE LIFE-STYLE INTERVENTIONS IN THE COMMUNITY - A PRELIMINARY-ANALYSIS

In a 6-month prospective study designed to retard the aging process, w e examined the effects of comprehensive lifestyle modifications in 52 participants aged 31 to 78 years, who were free of clinically overt di sease. The group adhered to a low-fat vegetarian diet supplemented wit h antioxidant nutrients, engaged in regular aerobic exercise (power-wa lking or jogging), and received motivational support. Statistical anal ysis of objective data shows a trend of optimization of weight and lip id values. Overall, the group lost an average of 2.95 kg, or 4.4% of s tarting weight; total cholesterol(TC) decreased 7.7%; LDLC, 12%; and T C/HDL-C ratio, 9%. Analysis by age and gender shows no significant dif ferences in trends. When grouped by objective parameter, maximal effec t is found in those with greatest deviation from a normal value at bas eline. Subjective assessments showed significant improvement in energy levels and physiological functioning. Although more well-defined stud ies are needed, we conclude that lifestyle modifications can optimize health status and level of physiologic functioning, and may be institu ted by adults of all age groups with prior medical approval.