Changes in nutritional status in adults over Christmas 1998

Background: Anecdotal evidence suggests that Christmas often leads to posit ive energy balance and a deterioration in nutritional status but there have been few studies. Methods: Twenty-six adults completed anthropometric, blood pressure and tot al blood cholesterol measurements before and after the Christmas holiday. Results: An increase in mean weight occurred (0.93 kg) despite five subject s being ill. Diastolic blood pressure increased most (8%) with six subjects being classified as mildly hypertensive after Christmas, but only two befo re. This might be explained by alcohol intake and/or changes in insulin sec retion/resistance. Conclusion: Changes consequent upon Christmas and their correction deserve further attention.