Effects of Glycemic Load and Exercise on Overweight/Obesity in College Students

Abstract

We sought to assess the effect of glycemic load consumption and exercise in healthy college students. Participants (N=10) were screened on physiological measures then randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. Both groups participated in the walking program. Those in the experimental group were given the ADA diet exchange list modified to low glycemic load. At the end of 12 weeks, participants were reassessed. Members of the experimental group saw significant changes in total cholesterol and blood glucose. Changes in body mass index and waist circumference were not significant but some changes were noted. The glycemic load does have a positive effect on blood chemistries and physiological measures.