Anthropometric measurements
Before and after 8 weeks, the weight of the subjects with barefoot and light clothing was recorded to the nearest 0.1 kg with a Seca scale. Height was measured using a mounted tape, with the subject’s arm hanging freely by their sides, and recorded to the nearest 0.5 cm. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated as the weight in kg divided by the square of the height in meters.
Dietary intake assessment
Dietary intake of patients was assessed using a 24-hour recall food questionnaire for three days (2 weekdays and 1 weekend day). Food models and photos of common Iranian dishes of various portions, as well as household cups and measures, were used to define amounts regarding type and amount of food and beverages consumed during previous days. All of the 24-hours food recalls were analyzed with Nutritionist IV software program and mean intakes of energy, macronutrient were calculated.
Statistical analysis
Descriptive parameters were obtained for all study variables of each study group. The normality of variables was tested by the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Paired t-test and independent t-test were used to compare the differences within a group or between groups, respectively. A P-value less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.