Effects of microwave technology on the subcutaneous abdominal fat and anthropometric indices of overweight adults: A clinical trial

Background and Objective Non-invasive body contouring devices have fewer side effects and are the new techniques for the treatment of obesity. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of microwave technology on the abdominal obesity and anthropometric indices of overweight adults. Materials and Methods This clinical trial was conducted on 53 overweight adults aged 18-65 years who referred to Behbood Clinic in Tehran, Iran. The participants were exposed to microwave technology (radiofrequency: 2.5 GHz) based on a standard treatment protocol at three intervals (0, 20, and 40 days). Abdominal obesity, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, body fat mass, and fat thickness were measured at the beginning and 20, 40, and 60 days after the study. In addition, three-day dietary records were collected at intervals. Results In total, 77.6% of the subjects were female and 22.4% were male. The mean calorie intake of the participants was 2245.14 +/- 1981.16 kcal/day. Microwave shock significantly reduced fat thickness in four abdominal areas (p < 0.001). Moreover, waist circumference (p < 0.001) and total fat thickness of the abdomen decreased (p = 0.003 and p = 0.002, respectively). Conclusion According to the results, microwave technology and radiofrequency could effectively reduce anthropometric indices. In general, the reduction of these indicators and weight may be more significant in men compared to women.