Impact of Winter Holidays on Body Composition Measured via Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis: A Prospective Study

TL;DR

This study found that winter holidays lead to small but measurable increases in weight and body fat, especially in men.

Contribution

The study provides empirical evidence of short-term body composition changes during the winter holiday period.

Findings

Weight, body fat mass, and visceral fat area increased significantly after the winter holidays.

Men experienced greater increases in weight and fat-related parameters than women.

Healthier dietary habits were associated with smaller increases in fat mass and anthropometric measures.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The winter holiday period is often associated with lifestyle changes that can affect body composition. This study aimed to evaluate short-term changes in body composition and anthropometric indices over the winter holidays. Methods: A total of 168 adults (126 women and 42 men) were assessed before (December) and after (January) the holidays using bioelectrical impedance analysis (InBody 770) and standard anthropometric measurements. Participants also completed a Healthy Eating Assessment questionnaire to evaluate their dietary habits during this period. Results: After the holiday, statistically significant increases were observed in weight (68.55 → 69.70 kg), body fat mass (20.60 → 21.15 kg), visceral fat area (95.40 → 97.60 cm2), and waist circumference (84.30 → 85.08 cm). Men showed greater gains in weight and fat-related parameters compared to women. Participants who reported healthier dietary behaviors had smaller increases in fat mass and anthropometric measures. Conclusions: These findings suggest that even brief holiday periods can lead to measurable gains in weight and body fat and, if repeated over time, may contribute to the development of obesity.

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