OBJECTIVE: The effects of a mixed program of nutrition intervention and physical exercise on body composition and feeding habits were evaluated in obese climacteric women. METHODS: Thirty participants were randomly assigned in 2 groups during 40 weeks: Diet Group (nutritional intervention) and Exercise Group (nutritional intervention and exercise). RESULTS: Weight reductions (Diet Group 2,3kg/Exercise Group -5,3kg) and waist circunference (Diet Group -4,8cm/Exercise Group 7,6cm) were greater in Exercise Group. A positive evolution was noticed in the Body Mass Index in both groups, with Exercise Group having better answer to treatment. It was observed a monotonous feeding pattern and low compliance to the consumption of regional typical foods. CONCLUSION: We concluded that the program was effective for weight loss at a higher intensity in the presence of exercise and the feeding education was able to modify the feeding habits.
obesity; climacterium; physical exercises; nutritional education; diet
