Pregnancy-Induced Changes in Body Fat, Physical Fitness and Energy Requirements in Military and Civilian Women
Abstract
This study addresses the impact of pregnancy-induced changes in body composition and physical fitness on postpartum return to duty readiness. We hypothesize that moderate levels of physical activity will maintain physical fitness and limit excess fat deposition during pregnancy without jeopardizing fetal growth if dietary intake is not restricted. Furthermore, moderate levels of physical activity will facilitate fat mobilization and conserve fat-free-mass (FFM) during postpartum weight loss. Physical activity, weight, FFM and fat mass, fitness, strength, and iron status will be measured in 34 military reservists and 34 civilian women with low to normal pre-pregnancy BMI through a complete reproductive cycle (0, 8, 22, 36 wk gestation; 2, 6 and 24 wk postpartum). Physical activity will be quantified as the difference between total energy expenditure and basal metabolic rate measured by the doubly-labeled water method and room respiration calorimetry. Body volume (hydrodensitometry), total body water (2H/18 dilution), potassium (40K counting), nitrogen (prompt-gamma activation), and bone mineral (dual X-ray absorptiometry) will be used to calculate FFM and fat mass. Physical fitness will be determined by submaximal and maximal aerobic capacity tests. This report presents preliminary results on women prior to conception.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADB231841
Entities
People
- Nancy F. Butte
Organizations
- Baylor College of Medicine