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Journal of the National Medical Association logoLink to Journal of the National Medical Association
letter
. 1985 Jan;77(1):39–43.

A Nutrition-Physical Fitness Intervention Program for Low-Income Black Parents

Joan Sullivan, James P Carter
PMCID: PMC2561818  PMID: 3968714

Abstract

An 8-week program taught nutrition and aerobic exercise to obese, low-income black mothers of children under 3 years. A reduction in risk factors for cardiovascular disease in the mothers was anticipated. Culturally adapted aerobic dancing was well-suited for exercise. It was assumed that children would ultimately adopt their parents' changed life style. The program demonstrated a significant reduction in heart rates at rest, but no significant change in heart rates with stress. A significant reduction in body-fat percentage was measured, whereas overall weight reduction was not significant. The consumption of vitamin C, protein, fat, and sodium was reduced. Intake of calcium, iron, carbohydrates, and vitamin A rose significantly. The results indicate the potential effectiveness of such dual intervention programs. Further study would be necessary for more conclusive results and recommendations.

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Selected References

These references are in PubMed. This may not be the complete list of references from this article.

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