Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic disorders characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and abdominal obesity. Globally, it is a major public health concern. International studies have linked higher Dietary Antioxidant Index with reduced risk of MetS, as antioxidants play a role in lowering the risk of MetS by reducing oxidative stress, a key contributor to its pathophysiology. Exploring this link in Pakistan can provide valuable insights for dietary strategies to reduce the risk of MetS.
Adults aged 18-45 years
Metabolic syndrome risk (abdominal obesity & elevated BP as per NCEP ATP III criteria).
Low fruit & veg intake (<5 serv./day) as per WHO.
Willing to follow an intervention
Individuals < 18 years or > 45 years
Not at risk of metabolic syndrome.
Adequate intake of fruits & veg (≥ 5 serv./day) as per WHO
Not willing
Single group
Antioxidant-Focused Diet Intervention
Other interventionThis intervention specifically targets the Dietary Antioxidant Index (DAI) by increasing consumption of antioxidant-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, while limiting pro-oxidant and ultra-processed foods. Unlike general healthy diet interventions, this study focuses on quantifiable antioxidant intake and its direct association with metabolic syndrome risk in urban adults.
Change in Dietary Antioxidant Index (DAI)
DAI will be calculated from 24-hour dietary recalls to quantify total antioxidant intake. The primary objective is to assess whether the antioxidant-rich diet increases DAI in participants.
Change in Metabolic Syndrome Risk Score
A composite metabolic syndrome risk score will be calculated by summing standardized z-scores of waist circumference (cm), fasting blood glucose (mg/dL), systolic blood pressure (mmHg), triglycerides (mg/dL), and inversely weighted HDL-cholesterol (mg/dL) to generate a single continuous measure of overall metabolic syndrome risk.
Change in Body Composition
Body composition, including body fat percentage and skeletal muscle mass, will be assessed using InBody analyzer to evaluate changes in body composition.
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