Behavioral Intervention, Exercise, and Nutrition Education to Improve Health and Fitness (BENEfit) in Adolescents With Mobility Impairment Due to Spinal Cord Dysfunction

J Spinal Cord Med, 2007 · DOI: · Published: January 1, 2007

Spinal Cord Injury Pediatrics Nutrition & Dietetics

Simple Explanation

The study investigates whether a program combining nutrition education and exercise can improve the health and fitness of adolescents with mobility issues due to spinal cord problems. Participants engaged in a 16-week program that included lifestyle changes, exercise, and nutrition education, attending sessions with their parents every other week. The program aimed to enhance lean muscle tissue, reduce fat tissue, increase strength and fitness, and improve understanding of nutrition and food choices.

Study Duration

16 weeks

Participants

20 adolescents (aged 11–18 years) with spinal cord dysfunction

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The study found a significant increase in whole-body lean tissue without a corresponding increase in whole-body fat among the participants.
2
Fitness measures showed a significant increase in maximum power output, aerobic work efficiency, and resting oxygen uptake.
3
Strength measurements revealed a significant increase in shoulder extension strength and a trend towards increased shoulder flexion strength.

Research Summary

The BENEfit program shows promise in improving health and fitness for adolescents with mobility impairments, who face a high risk of obesity and related health conditions. The 16-week intervention, focusing on nutrition education, exercise, and lifestyle modification, led to increased lean tissue, improved aerobic fitness, and enhanced shoulder strength. Despite improvements in body composition and fitness, the study noted no significant changes in serum lipids, suggesting a need for more aggressive dietary interventions in future programs.

Practical Implications

Improved Fitness

The BENEfit program can improve the fitness levels of adolescents with mobility impairments, enhancing their physical capabilities.

Enhanced Body Composition

The program can positively influence body composition by increasing lean tissue and preventing significant fat gain.

Model for Future Programs

The study provides a model for designing and implementing similar interventions, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and exercise education.

Behavioral Intervention, Exercise, and Nutrition Education to Improve Health and Fitness (BENEfit) in Adolescents With Mobility Impairment Due to Spinal Cord Dysfunction

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improved Fitness

Enhanced Body Composition

Model for Future Programs

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Behavioral Intervention, Exercise, and Nutrition Education to Improve Health and Fitness (BENEfit) in Adolescents With Mobility Impairment Due to Spinal Cord Dysfunction

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improved Fitness

Enhanced Body Composition

Model for Future Programs

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?