Assessing the Effect of an Antioxidant-Rich Diet on Metabolic Syndrome Risk Using the Dietary Antioxidant Index

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic disorders characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and abdominal obesity. Globally, it is a major public health concern. International studies have linked higher Dietary Antioxidant Index with reduced risk of MetS, as antioxidants play a role in lowering the risk of MetS by reducing oxidative stress, a key contributor to its pathophysiology. Exploring this link in Pakistan can provide valuable insights for dietary strategies to reduce the risk of MetS.

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic disorders characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and abdominal obesity. Globally, it is a major public health concern. International studies have linked higher Dietary Antioxidant Index (DAI) scores with reduced risk of MetS, as antioxidants play a role in lowering the risk of MetS by reducing oxidative stress, a key contributor to its pathophysiology. Exploring this link in Pakistan can provide valuable insights for dietary strategies to reduce the risk of MetS. Hypothesis: A dietary intervention aimed at improving Dietary Antioxidant Index (DAI) scores beneficially affects Metabolic Syndrome risk factors among urban adults at risk of developing Metabolic Syndrome. Material and Methods: A single-group pre-post human interventional study will be conducted among at-risk urban adults identified through the NCEP ATP III and WHO criteria. Dietary recalls will be analyzed in NutriSurvey using the Pakistan Food Composition Table, and any missing nutrient values will be supplemented from the Indian Food Composition Table. Nutrient data will be used to calculate the Dietary Antioxidant Index (DAI). Individuals with low DAI will receive dietary intervention. Statistical Analysis: Pre-post changes in DAI and MetS markers will be assessed using paired t-tests, and Pearson's correlation will determine their associations using SPSS 25. Expected Outcomes: The intervention is expected to reduce key Metabolic Syndrome risk factors while increasing individuals' awareness and motivation to adopt healthier behaviors.