Abstract

This study was conducted to measure the difference in the total antioxidant status(TAS) of overweight and normal weight adults, and to investigate the correlation between TAS and the nutrient intake. Anthropometric parameter, TAS, biochemical parameters and dietary intake were measured in the normal weight group(n=17, BMI 20-25, obesity index 90-110%, body fat 16-20%) and overweight group(n=13, BMI > 25, obesity index > 120%, body fat > 25%) among Korean young males. The TAS of the overweight group was significantly higher than that of the normal weight group(p<0.01). Among biochemical parameters, the average uric acid concentration of the overweight group was significantly higher(p<0.05) compared to that of the normal weight group indicating, the uric acid concentration reflects TAS. Usual dietary intake showed that the intakes of Ca and vitamin B2, are below RDA. The average intake of vitamin C in the overweight group was significantly lower than that in the normal group(p<0.05). There was no difference in the intake of carotene and vitamin E between groups. The diet quality of both groups was satisfactory. The result of the correlation analysis on TAS, the uric acid concentration, and the measured indexs are as follows : In the overweight group, TAS was negatively correlated with alchol drinking, and uric acid concentration was positively correlated with BMI, obesity index, and TAS. In conclusion, TAS was significantly higher in the overweight group than that of the normal group, although no association was found with nutrient intakes. Serum uric acid showed a positive relationship with TAS indicating, it is a possible determinant of the antioxidant capacity.

• Keywords: overweight; total antioxidant status; uric acid; usual diet