2025 Volume 40 Issue 1 Pages 32-40
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate effective health guidance strategies for reducing visceral fat, while considering changes in muscle mass.
Methods: Thirty-five individuals (25 men and 10 women) aged 40–75 years with visceral fat type obesity identified during specific health checkups between June 2022 and February 2023 underwent targeted health guidance. Baseline measurements were compared with data obtained after one year, including body composition, anthropometric measurements, and clinical test values. Lifestyle, diet, and exercise habits were assessed using self-administered questionnaires. Multiple regression analysis was performed using the reduction in visceral fat as the dependent variable and lifestyle, dietary, and exercise habit questionnaire score as independent variables.
Results: Body weight significantly decreased from 73.1 kg to 72.5 kg, and body mass index (BMI) slightly decreased from 26.2 kg/m2 to 26.1 kg/m2. However, no significant changes were observed in waist circumference (91.8 cm to 91.3 cm) and visceral fat level (10.7 to 10.4). Additionally, the skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) significantly decreased from 7.90 kg/m2 to 7.85 kg/m2. Body weight, BMI, and SMI were negative factors for visceral fat level. Maintaining a habit of engaging in sweat-inducing exercise for ≥30 min daily for one year is a key factor in reducing visceral fat.
Conclusion: To reduce visceral fat, while preserving muscle mass, health guidance should emphasize sustained improvements in dietary behaviors and the establishment of robust exercise-focused goals.
