Study of physical activity and energy expenditure in obese and non-obese Thai children in Bangkok Metropolis

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the physical activity and energy expenditure in a total of 47 Thai children in Bangkok, aged 9-12 years consisting of 21 obese and 26 nonobese children. Anthropometric and body composition measurements were performed. Energy expenditure was determined by indirect calorimetry based on oxygen consumption. Physical activity was assessed using heart rate monitoring method and physical activity index was calculated by the ratio of total energy expenditure to sedentary energy expenditure. The results showed that weight, body mass index, relative weight, per cent body fat, fat mass, as well as activity energy expenditure (AEE), sedentary energy expenditure (TEE) were significantly higher (p<0.01) in the obese children when compared to the nonobese group. The mean values of respiratory quotient (RQ) were 0.91+-0.06 in obese and 0.89 in nonobese group, respectively, indicating the contribution of carbohydrate substrateto energy production. Both obese and nonobese children were similar in physical activity level of 1.48+-0.17 and 1.51+-0.22, respectively, which were lower than that recommended by the World Health Organization (1.7). It is concluded that this group of obese and nonobese children had low level of physical activity and high carbohydrate intake might increase the risk of obesity at the later age. To prevent obesity in children, programming of exercise and activities as well as nutritional education should be emphasized for school children and parents