EFFECT OF SUPPLEMENTATION WITH SAFFLOWER OIL ON THE ANTHROPOMETRIC AND LIPID PROFILES OF WOMEN WITH EXCESS WEIGHT PRACTICING PHYSICAL EXERCISE

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of supplementation with Safflower oil on the anthropometric and lipid profiles of women with excess weight. Material and Methods: The study population was composed of nine women with excess weight practicing physical exercise, with a mean age of 26.55±7.82 years. The study participants were supplemented for 60 days with capsules of Safflower oil (Biocártamo® - 1000 mg, Herbarium®). The capsules were ingested three times a day before meals, two capsules per meal. Waist circumference was measured using a flexible anthropometric tape. We also measured the triceps, biceps, subscapular and supra iliac skinfolds, in order to calculate the body fat percentage. Results: There were no significant differences in body weight (69.62 ± 6.94 kg), BMI (25.68 ± 2.26 kg/m2) and percentage of body weight (32.76 ± 2.24%) after treatment with Safflower oil. However, there was a decrease in the skinfolds, although with no statistical significance. Only the waist circumference (p = 0.007) had a significant reduction after supplementation. There was a reduction and overall improvement of the lipid profile according to the mean values of TC and LDL-C. However, only the mean values of triglycerides were shown to be significant. Conclusion: Further research using supplementation with Safflower Oil in humans should be encouraged, given that the majority of studies have been carried out with animals and at different times and amounts of supplementation. DESCRIPTORS Safflower oil. Body composition. Overweight. Exercise.