2.2.2. Clinical Assessment
Eligible subjects were randomized into two groups; spirulina and soya bean groups, and were each
seen every two weeks for a total duration of 2 months. The duration of two months was chosen based
on previous studies that showed significant effects of spirulina on glucose homeostasis within this
period of time [17,18]. Subjects were asked to continue their diet and physical activity as usual.
At study entry, patients had been fasting for at least eight hours overnight. The same operator noted
the age and ART treatment regiment and duration of each eligible participant and evaluated their daily
physical activity and diet using a quantitative questionnaire and assessed anthropometric data.
Anthropometric measurements included weight, height, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference
(WC) and total adiposity. Body height and weight (electronic weighing device, LAICA®, Italy) were
measured without shoes and in light clothing, respectively. BMI was measured as the ratio between the
weight and the square of the height (kg/m2). WC was measured as the circumference of the torso
midway between the imaginary line that joins the twelfth rib to the iliac crest. Total adiposity was
indirectly measured using a body fat monitor (Quantum III, RJL Systems, USA). Of the four
electrodes emanating from the monitor, two were placed on the right hand and two on the right foot
with the patient lying supine. Total body fat and lean body mass were calculated after introducing the
resistance measured by the monitor into the NHANES III formulae [24]. All these measurements were
repeated after 2 months of intervention.