Alleviation of Cardiometabolic Risk Factors Through Watermelon (Citrullus Lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. &Amp; Nakai) Rind-based Bread Among Cardiac Patients

The target population was adults between the ages of 35 and 65 years who were receiving outpatient care at a hospital or clinic with a diagnosis of either mild to moderate hypertension, mild to moderate alterations in lipid profile or pre-diabetes. To select potential participants from the study population, subjects with a medical history of diabetes, measuring fasting blood glucose, lipid profile and blood pressure were screened.Following screening, participants were divided evenly into three groups: experimental group (1, 2) and one control group. The participants were advised to take 2 slices of bread in breakfast. Individualized plans were given according to their nutrient requirements. A systematic communication plan was developed in order to follow up with participants on their daily consumption of the suggested watermelon rind-based bread through telephonic conversations. For continuous assistance there was a WhatsApp group set up where members may ask issues and get help. The follow up for patients were conducted every month; baseline and after 6 pre-treatments. Appointments for follow-up exams were done after every 15 days in order to track developments, anthropometric measurements were calculated every follow up and modify the dosage as necessary. The baseline and post study test was compared to test the hypothesis.