Mette Svendsen

• Sousa, Ana Rita Sequeira de; Klemsdal, Tor Ole; Ghiasvand, Reza; Svendsen, Mette; Birkeland, Kåre Inge & Sveen, Kari Anne (2026). Lifestyle modifications in individuals with blood pressure beyond treatment target despite pharmacological treatment: design and baseline characteristics of the MeDiPA randomised controlled trial. Blood Pressure. ISSN 0803-7051. 35(1). doi: 10.1080/08037051.2026.2705014. Full text in Research Archive
• Vincenzo, Olivia Di; Minnetti, Marianna; Baker, Jennifer Lyn; Barazzoni, Rocco; Boyland, Emma & Busetto, Luca [Show all 18 contributors for this article] (2025). European Association for the Study of Obesity Position Statement on the Diagnosis and Management of Obesity in Older Adults. Obesity Facts. ISSN 1662-4025. doi: 10.1159/000549751. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Obesity is increasingly prevalent among older adults and is a major contributor to cardiometabolic diseases, functional decline, frailty, and loss of independence. The intersection between population ageing and the obesity epidemic poses major public health and clinical challenges. This European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO) position statement represents an update of the EASO guideline from 2012, and provides a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical consequences, and management of obesity in adults aged ≥65 years. It summarizes current evidence and offers practical recommendations for diagnosis and treatment tailored to this age group. To guide clinicians and researchers through this updated framework, the position statement highlights four central concepts that underpin obesity assessment and management in later life: (1) obesity affects up to one-third of older adults globally, with prevalence varying by sex and geography; (2) ageing is associated with changes in body composition, hormonal milieu, and lifestyle factors (diet, physical inactivity, and polypharmacy) that favour fat accumulation and sarcopenic obesity; (3) body mass index alone is insufficient; assessment should include body composition analysis (including fat distribution and muscle mass), psychological status, and functional performance; (4) a multimodal approach is recommended, including moderate energy restriction with adequate protein intake, structured multicomponent exercise, behavioural support, and, where appropriate, obesity management medications and/or metabolic bariatric surgery. The focus should be on preserving muscle mass, functional capacity, and quality of life, rather than weight loss alone. Effective management of obesity in older adults should focus on individualized, multidisciplinary strategies that balance the benefits of weight reduction against the risks of sarcopenia, malnutrition, and loss of independence.

• Røkenes, Jessica Ann; Aukan, Marthe Isaksen; Bomo, Ola Jakob; Brechan, Ingeborg; Knudsen, Katarina Aasen & Hansen, Jonas Grenne [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2024). Is severe carbohydrate restriction necessary for appetite suppression? The ASKED randomized controlled trial. Obesity. ISSN 1930-7381. 32(11), p. 2087–2099. doi: 10.1002/oby.24133. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective: This trial aimed to compare three low-energy diets (LEDs) with different amounts of carbohydrates (CHO) on ketosis and changes in hunger feelings in adults with obesity. Methods: A total of 101 adults (51 female) with obesity (BMI, mean [SEM], 34.7 [0.4] kg/m2) were randomized to follow three isocaloric LEDs (1000 kcal/day) for 8 weeks, containing either low, medium, or high CHO (70, 100, and 130 g/day, respectively), and 4 weeks of refeeding and weight stabilization. Body weight (BW) and composition, hunger and other appetite ratings, concentrations of β-hydroxybutyrate (βHB), and appetite-related hormones were measured at baseline and at the end of weeks 8 and 12. Results: At week 8, weight loss and βHB concentrations were significantly different among groups: Low CHO group versus Medium CHO group (BW: 2.32 [0.95] kg, 95% CI: 0.44 to 4.21, p = 0.016; βHB: −0.40 [0.09] mM, 95% CI: −0.67 to −0.09, p < 0.001); Low CHO group versus High CHO group (BW: 2.29 [0.96] kg, 95% CI: 0.39 to 4.19, p = 0.016; βHB: −0.644 [0.10] mM, 95% CI: −0.84 to −0.44, p < 0.001); and Medium CHO group versus High CHO group (BW: −0.03 [0.94] kg, 95% CI: −1.89 to 1.84, p = 0.977; βHB: −0.15 [0.08] mM, 95% CI: −0.30 to 0.002, p = 0.054). No significant differences in hunger were found among groups: Low CHO group versus Medium CHO group (−10.87 [5.92] mm, 95% CI: −0.82 to 22.57, p = 0.068); Low CHO group versus Medium CHO group (7.74 [7.36] mm, 95% CI: −6.77 to 22.26, p = 0.294); and Medium CHO group versus High CHO group (−3.13 [7.48] mm, 95% CI: −17.89 to 11.63, p = 0.676). Conclusions: Although the findings of this trial are not definitive, changes in hunger ratings with weight loss did not differ among groups. Additional studies with CHO intake of up to 130 g in 1000-kcal/day LEDs are warranted to replicate these findings.

• Svendsen, Mette & Forslund, Heléne Bertéus (2024). Meal patterns, including intermittent fasting - a scoping review for nordic nutrition recommendations 2023. Food & Nutrition Research (FNR). ISSN 1654-6628. 68. doi: 10.29219/fnr.v68.10505. Full text in Research Archive
• Mathisen, Therese Fostervold; Sundgot-Borgen, Jorunn; Rosenvinge, Jan H; Bratland-Sanda, Solfrid; Svendsen, Mette & Pettersen, Gunn [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2023). Metabolic profile in women with bulimia nervosa or binge-eating disorder before and after treatment: secondary analysis from the randomized PED-t trial. Eating and Weight Disorders - Studies on Anorexia, Bulimia and Obesity. ISSN 1124-4909. 28(1). doi: 10.1007/s40519-023-01567-y. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Purpose: Chaotic eating and purging behavior pose a risk to the metabolic health of women with bulimia nervosa (BN) and binge-eating disorder (BED). This study reports on one-year changes in blood markers of metabolic health and thyroid hormones in women with BN or BED attending two different treatments. Methods: These are secondary analyses from a randomized controlled trial of 16-week group treatment of either physical exercise and dietary therapy (PED-t) or cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Blood samples collected at pre-treatment, week eight, post-treatment, and at 6- and 12-month follow-ups were analyzed for glucose, lipids (triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), LDL cholesterol (LDL-c), HDL cholesterol (HDL-c), apolipoprotein A (ApoA) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) lipoproteins), and thyroid hormones (thyroxine (T4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and thyroperoxidase antibodies). Result: The average levels of blood glucose, lipids and thyroid hormones were within the recommended range, but clinical levels of TC and LDL-c were detected in 32.5% and 39.1%, respectively. More women with BED compared with BN had low HDL-c, and a larger increase over time in TC and TSH. No significant differences occurred between PED-t and CBT at any measurement. Exploratory moderator analyses indicated a more unfavorable metabolic response at follow-up among treatment non-responders. Conclusion: The proportion of women with impaired lipid profiles and unfavorable lipid changes, suggests active monitoring with necessary management of the metabolic health of women with BN or BED, as recommended by metabolic health guidelines.

• Dybvik, Jarle Sæby; Svendsen, Mette & Aune, Dagfinn (2022). Vegetarian and vegan diets and the risk of cardiovascular disease, ischemic heart disease and stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. European Journal of Nutrition. ISSN 1436-6207. 62, p. 51–69. doi: 10.1007/s00394-022-02942-8. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Purpose Vegetarian diets have been associated with reduced risk of ischemic heart disease (IHD). However, results regarding cardiovascular disease (CVD) overall and stroke are less clear. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies on CVD, IHD and stroke risk among vegetarians or vegans versus nonvegetarians to clarify these associations. Methods PubMed and Ovid Embase databases were searched through August 12, 2021. Prospective cohort studies reporting adjusted relative risk (RR) estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incidence or mortality from CVD, IHD and stroke, comparing vegetarians and vegans to nonvegetarians were included. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using ROBINS-I and the strength of evidence was assessed using World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) criteria. Summary RRs (95% CIs) were estimated using a random effects model. Results Thirteen cohort studies (844,175 participants, 115,392 CVD, 30,377 IHD, and 14,419 stroke cases) were included. The summary RR for vegetarians vs. nonvegetarians was 0.85 (95% CI: 0.79–0.92, I 2=68%, n=8) for CVD, 0.79 (95% CI: 0.71–0.88, I 2=67%, n=8) for IHD, 0.90 (95% CI: 0.77–1.05, I 2=61%, n=12) for total stroke, and for vegans vs. nonvegetarians was 0.82 (95% CI: 0.68–1.00, I 2=0%, n=6) for IHD. RoB was moderate (n=8) to serious (n=5). The associations between vegetarian diets and CVD and IHD were considered probably causal using WCRF criteria. Conclusions Vegetarian diets are associated with reduced risk of CVD and IHD, but not stroke, but further studies are needed on stroke. These findings should be considered in dietary guidelines. Review registration No review protocol registered. Keywords Vegetarian · Vegan · cardiovascular disease· Ischemic heart disease · Stroke · Meta-analysis

• Svendsen, Mette; Heggen, Eli; Klemsdal, Tor Ole & Tonstad, Serena (2021). Diet, eating behaviour and weight gain in men and women with overweight/obesity receiving varenicline for smoking cessation. Clinical Obesity. ISSN 1758-8103. 11(3). doi: 10.1111/cob.12447. Full text in Research Archive
• Sundfør, Tine Mejlbo; Svendsen, Mette; Heggen, Eli; Dusanov, Sasa; Klemsdal, Tor Ole & Tonstad, Serena (2019). BMI modifies the effect of dietary fat on atherogenic lipids: a randomised clinical trial. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. ISSN 0002-9165. 110(4), p. 832–841. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/nqz113. Full text in Research Archive
• Dusanov, Sasa; Svendsen, Mette; Ruzzin, Jerome; Kiviranta, Hannu; Gulseth, Hanne Løvdal & Klemsdal, Tor Ole [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Effect of fatty fish or nut consumption on concentrations of persistent organic pollutants in overweight or obese men and women: A randomized controlled clinical trial. NMCD. Nutrition Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases. ISSN 0939-4753. 30(3), p. 448–458. doi: 10.1016/j.numecd.2019.11.006. Full text in Research Archive
• Sundfør, Tine Mejlbo; Tonstad, Serena & Svendsen, Mette (2018). Effects of intermittent versus continuous energy restriction for weight loss on diet quality and eating behavior. A randomized trial. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. ISSN 0954-3007. p. 1–9. doi: 10.1038/s41430-018-0370-0. Full text in Research Archive
• Mathisen, Therese Fostervold; Rosenvinge, Jan H; Friborg, Oddgeir; Pettersen, Gunn; Stensrud, Trine & Hansen, Bjørge Hermann [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2018). Body composition and physical fitness in women with bulimia nervosa or binge-eating disorder. International Journal of Eating Disorders. ISSN 0276-3478. 51(4), p. 331–342. doi: 10.1002/eat.22841. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective:Knowledge about physical fitness in women with bulimia nervosa (BN) or binge-eatingdisorder (BED) is sparse. Previous studies have measured physical activity largely through self-report, and physical fitness variables are mainly restricted to body mass index (BMI) and bone min-eral density. We expanded the current knowledge in these groups by including a wider range ofphysical fitness indicators and objective measures of physical activity, assessed the influence of ahistory of anorexia nervosa (AN), and evaluated predictive variables for physical fitness.Method:Physical activity, blood pressure, cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), muscle strength, bodycomposition, and bone mineral density were measured in 156 women with BN or BED, with mean(SD) age 28.4 years (5.7) and BMI 25.3 (4.8) kg m22.Results:Level of physical activity was higher than normative levels, still<50% met the officialphysical activity recommendation. Fitness in women with BN were on an average comparable withrecommendations or normative levels, while women with BED had lower CRF and higher BMI,VAT, and body fat percentage. We found 10–12% with masked obesity. A history of AN did notpredict current physical fitness, still values for current body composition were lower when compar-ing those with history of AN to those with no such history.Discussion:Overall, participants with BN or BED displayed adequate physical fitness; however, ahigh number had unfavorable CRF and body composition. This finding calls for inclusion of physicalfitness in routine clinical examinations and guided physical activity and dietary recommendationsin the treatment of BN and BED.

• Retterstøl, Kjetil; Svendsen, Mette; Narverud, Ingunn & Holven, Kirsten Bjørklund (2018). Effect of low carbohydrate high fat diet on LDL cholesterol and gene expression in normal-weight, young adults: A randomized controlled study. Atherosclerosis. ISSN 0021-9150. 279, p. 52–61. doi: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2018.10.013. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background and aims: The effects of a low carbohydrate/high fat (LCHF) diet on health are debated. This study aims to explore the effects of a diet with less than 20 g carbohydrates per day (LCHF) on plasma low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in young and healthy adults. The secondary aim is the assessment of lipid profile and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) gene expression. Methods: This was a randomized controlled parallel-designed intervention study. Participants were either assigned to a three-week LCHF diet or a control group continuing habitual diet ad libitum, in both groups. Results: In total, 30 healthy normal weight participants completed the study. Nine subjects did not complete it due to adverse events or withdrawn consent. In the LCHF diet group (n = 15), plasma LDL-C increased from (mean ± SD) 2.2 ± 0.4 mmol/l before intervention to 3.1 ± 0.8 after, while in the control group (n = 15), LDL-C remained unchanged: 2.5 ± 0.8 mmol/l (p < 0.001 between groups). There was a significant increase in apolipoprotein B, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, free fatty acids, uric acid and urea in the LCHF group versus controls. Plasma levels of triglycerides, lipoprotein (a), glucose, C-peptide or C-reactive protein (CRP), blood pressure, body weight or body composition did not differ between the groups. PBMC gene expression of sterol regulator element binding protein 1 (SREBP-1) was increased in the LCHF group versus controls (p ≤ 0.01). The individual increase in LDL-C from baseline varied between 5 and 107% in the LCHF group. Conclusions: An LCHF diet for three weeks increased LDL-C with 44% versus controls. The individual response on LCHF varied profoundly.

• Sundfør, Tine Mejlbo; Svendsen, Mette & Tonstad, Serena (2018). Effect of intermittent versus continuous energy restriction on weight loss, maintenance and cardiometabolic risk: A randomized 1-year trial. NMCD. Nutrition Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases. ISSN 0939-4753. 28(7), p. 698–706. doi: 10.1016/j.numecd.2018.03.009. Full text in Research Archive
• Sundfør, Tine Mejlbo; Svendsen, Mette & Tonstad, Serena (2018). Intermittent calorie restriction-a more effective approach to weight loss? American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. ISSN 0002-9165. 108(5), p. 909–910. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/nqy288. Full text in Research Archive
• Mathisen, Therese Fostervold; Rosenvinge, Jan H; Pettersen, Gunn; Friborg, Oddgeir; Vrabel, Kari-Anne & Bratland-Sanda, Solfrid [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2017). The PED-t trial protocol: The effect of physical exercise –and dietary therapy compared with cognitive behavior therapy in treatment of bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. Study protocol of a randomized controlled trial. BMC Psychiatry. 17:180, p. 1–11. doi: 10.1186/s12888-017-1312-4. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: <br> Sufferers from bulimia nervosa (BN) and binge eating disorder (BED) underestimate the severity risk of their illness and, therefore, postpone seeking professional help for years. Moreover, less than one in five actually seek professional help and only 50% respond to current treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The impetus for the present trial is to explore a novel combination treatment approach adapted from physical exercise- and dietary therapy (PED-t). The therapeutic underpinnings of these separate treatment components are well-known, but their combination to treat BN and BED have never been previously tested. The purpose of this paper is to provide the rationale for this new treatment approach and to outline the specific methods and procedures. <br> Methods: <br> The PED-t trial uses a prospective randomized controlled design. It allocates women between 18 and 40 years (BMI range 17.5–35.0) to groups consisting of 5–8 members who receive either CBT or PED-t for 16 weeks. Excess participants are allocated to a waiting list control group condition. All participants are assessed at baseline, post-treatment, 6, 12 and 24 months’ post-follow-up, respectively, and monitored for changes in biological, psychological and therapy process variables. The primary outcome relates to the ED symptom severity, while secondary outcomes relates to treatment effects on physical health, treatment satisfaction, therapeutic alliance, and cost-effectiveness. We aim to disseminate the results in high-impact journals, preferable open access, and at international conferences. <br> Discussion: <br> We expect that the new treatment will perform equal to CBT in terms of behavioral and psychological symptoms, but better in terms of reducing somatic symptoms and complications. We also expect that the new treatment will improve physical fitness and thereby, quality of life. Hence, the new treatment will add to the portfolio of evidence-based therapies and thereby provide a good treatment alternative for females with BN and BED. Trial registration: Prospectively registered in REC the 16th of December 2013 with the identifier number 2013/1871, and in Clinical Trials the 17th of February 2014 with the identifier number NCT02079935.

• Heggen, Eli; Svendsen, Mette & Tonstad, Serena (2017). Smoking cessation improves cardiometabolic risk in overweight and obese subjects treated with varenicline and dietary counseling. NMCD. Nutrition Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases. ISSN 0939-4753. 27(4), p. 335–341. doi: 10.1016/j.numecd.2016.12.011. Full text in Research Archive
• Heggen, Eli; Svendsen, Mette; Klemsdal, Tor Ole & Tonstad, Serena (2016). Low carbohydrate and moderately fat-reduced diets similarly affected early weight gain in varenicline-treated overweight or obese smokers. Nicotine & Tobacco Research. ISSN 1462-2203. 18(6), p. 1440–1448. doi: 10.1093/ntr/ntv164. Full text in Research Archive
• Svendsen, Mette; Tonstad, Serena; Heggen, Eli; Pedersen, Terje Rolf; Seljeflot, Ingebjørg & Bøhn, Siv Kjølsrud [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2015). The effect of kiwifruit consumption on blood pressure in subjects with moderately elevated blood pressure: A randomized, controlled study. Blood Pressure. ISSN 0803-7051. 24(1), p. 48–54. doi: 10.3109/08037051.2014.976979. Full text in Research Archive
• Klemsdal, Tor Ole & Svendsen, Mette (2014). Saltinntak og kardiovaskulær sykdom: Hva kan oppnås og hvordan? Hjerteforum. ISSN 0802-1465. 27(2), p. 24–30. Full text in Research Archive
• Danielsen, Kjersti Karoline; Sundgot-Borgen, Jorunn; Mæhlum, Sverre & Svendsen, Mette (2014). Beyond weight reduction: Improvements in quality of life after an intensive lifestyle intervention in subjects with severe obesity. Annals of Medicine. ISSN 0785-3890. 46(5), p. 273–282. doi: 10.3109/07853890.2013.874660. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Introduction: We examined the effects of 10–14 weeks of inpatient intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI), including a minimum of 90 minutes of adapted physical activity 5 days/week, with regard to changes in quality of life and associations with weight loss in subjects with severe obesity. Methods: A total of 100 severely obese subjects (BMI 42.6 ± 5.3 kg/m2; 42.7 ± 10.6 years) were included. Quality of life was assessed by Binge Eating Scale, Hospital Anxiety, and Depression Scale, and SF- 36. The ILI group completed the questionnaires at inclusion, after 10–14 weeks and 12 months, and controls at inclusion and after 10–14 weeks. Results: Compared to controls, self-reported binge eating (–6.4, P < 0.0001), anxiety (–1.7, P = 0.005), and depression (–3.0, P < 0.0001) were reduced, and physical (8.0, P < 0.0001) and mental (7.6, P < 0.0001) health increased in the ILI group. After 12 months, reduction in self-reported binge eating (–7.2, P < 0.0001) and depression (–3.4, P < 0.0001) and increase in physical (8.9, P < 0.0001) and mental (3.6, P = 0.035) health were maintained. Decreased self-reported binge eating (β = 0.555, P = 0.010) and increased physical health (β = –0.554, P = 0.003) were associated with weight loss. Conclusion: ILI including a high volume of physical activity in subjects with severe obesity improved quality of life by favorable changes in self-reported binge eating, depression, and mental and physical health. Improvements in binge eating and physical health were associated with weight loss.

• Karlsen, Anette; Svendsen, Mette; Seljeflot, Ingebjørg; Laake, Petter; Duttaroy, Asim K. & Drevon, Christian A [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2013). Kiwifruit decreases blood pressure and whole-blood platelet aggregation in male smokers. Journal of Human Hypertension. ISSN 0950-9240. 27(2), p. 126–130. doi: 10.1038/jhh.2011.116. Full text in Research Archive
• Danielsen, Kjersti Karoline; Svendsen, Mette; Mæhlum, Sverre & Sundgot-Borgen, Jorunn (2013). Changes in Body Composition, Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors, and Eating Behavior after an Intensive Lifestyle Intervention with High Volume of Physical Activity in Severely Obese Subjects: A Prospective Clinical Controlled Trial. Journal of Obesity. ISSN 2090-0708. doi: 10.1155/2013/325464. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  We examined the effects of a 10–14-weeks inpatient lifestyle modification program, including minimum 90 min of physical activity (PA) five days/week, on body composition, CVD risk factors, and eating behavior in 139 obese subjects (BMI  kg/m2). Completion rate was 71% in the intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) group and 85% among waiting list controls. Compared to controls body weight ( (95% CI: , ) kg, ), fat mass ( (95% CI: , ) kg, ), fat free mass ( (95% CI: , ) kg, ) and visceral fat ((95% CI: , ) cm2, ) were reduced in the ILI-group after 10–14 weeks. Within the ILI-group weight loss was (95% CI: , ) kg, and (95% CI: , ) kg, , after six and 12 months, respectively. Systolic BP, glucose, triglycerides, and LDL-C were reduced, and HDL-C was increased (all ) after 10–14 weeks within the ILI group. The reduction in glucose and increase in HDL-C were sustained after 12 months (all ). After one year, weight loss was related to increased cognitive restraint and decreased uncontrolled eating (all ). Thus, ILI including high volume of PA resulted in weight loss with almost maintenance of fat-free mass, favorable changes in CVD risk factors, and eating behavior in subjects with severe obesity.

• Svendsen, Mette & Tonstad, Serena (2011). Orlistat after initial dietary/behavioural treatment: changes in body weight and dietary maintenance in subjects with sleep related breathing disorders. Nutrition Journal. 10. doi: 10.1186/1475-2891-10-21. Full text in Research Archive
• Karlsen, Anette; Svendsen, Mette; Seljeflot, Ingebjørg; Sommernes, Mary-Ann; Sexton, Joseph & Brevik, Asgeir [Show all 23 contributors for this article] (2011). Compliance, tolerability and safety of two antioxidant-rich diets: a randomised controlled trial in male smokers. British Journal of Nutrition. ISSN 0007-1145. 106(4), p. 557–571. doi: 10.1017/S0007114511000353. Full text in Research Archive
• Svendsen, Mette; Halse, J.; Hustvedt, Bo-Egil & Tonstad, Serena (2011). Physical activity in obese subjects with a high metabolic risk profile. International Journal of Body Composition Research. ISSN 1479-456X. 9(3), p. 73–80. Full text in Research Archive
• Bøhn, Siv Kjølsrud; Myhrstad, Mari Charlotte; Thoresen, Magne; Holden, Marit; Karlsen, Anette & Tunheim, Siv Haugen [Show all 17 contributors for this article] (2010). Blood cell gene expression associated with cellular stress defense is modulated by antioxidant-rich food in a randomised controlled clinical trial of male smokers. BMC Medicine. 8. doi: 10.1186/1741-7015-8-54. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Plant-based diets rich in fruit and vegetables can prevent development of several chronic age-related diseases. However, the mechanisms behind this protective effect are not elucidated. We have tested the hypothesis that intake of antioxidant-rich foods can affect groups of genes associated with cellular stress defence in human blood cells. Trial registration number: NCT00520819 http://clinicaltrials.gov. Methods In an 8-week dietary intervention study, 102 healthy male smokers were randomised to either a diet rich in various antioxidant-rich foods, a kiwifruit diet (three kiwifruits/d added to the regular diet) or a control group. Blood cell gene expression profiles were obtained from 10 randomly selected individuals of each group. Diet-induced changes on gene expression were compared to controls using a novel application of the gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) on transcription profiles obtained using Affymetrix HG-U133-Plus 2.0 whole genome arrays. Results Changes were observed in the blood cell gene expression profiles in both intervention groups when compared to the control group. Groups of genes involved in regulation of cellular stress defence, such as DNA repair, apoptosis and hypoxia, were significantly upregulated (GSEA, FDR q-values < 5%) by both diets compared to the control group. Genes with common regulatory motifs for aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and AhR nuclear translocator (AhR/ARNT) were upregulated by both interventions (FDR q-values < 5%). Plasma antioxidant biomarkers (polyphenols/carotenoids) increased in both groups. Conclusions The observed changes in the blood cell gene expression profiles suggest that the beneficial effects of a plant-based diet on human health may be mediated through optimization of defence processes.

• Svendsen, Mette; Helgeland, Merete & Tonstad, Serena (2009). The long-term influence of orlistat on dietary intake in obese subjects with components of metabolic syndrome. Journal of human nutrition and dietetics. ISSN 0952-3871. 22(1), p. 55–63. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-277X.2008.00920.x. Full text in Research Archive
• Hustvedt, Bo Egil; Svendsen, Mette; Løvø, Arne; Ellegård, Lars; Hallén, Jostein & Tonstad, Serena (2008). Validation of ActiReg to measure physical activity and energy expenditure against doubly labelled water (DLW) in obese persons. British Journal of Nutrition. ISSN 0007-1145. 100, p. 219–226. doi: 10.1017/S0007114507886363. Full text in Research Archive
• Hustvedt, Bo-Egil; Svendsen, Mette; Løvø, Arne; Ellegård, Lars; Hallén, Jostein & Tonstad, Serena (2008). Validation of ActiReg (R) to measure physical activity and energy expenditure against doubly labelled water in obese persons. British Journal of Nutrition. ISSN 0007-1145. 100(1), p. 219–226. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  ActiReg (R) is an instrument that uses combined recordings of body position and motion to calculate energy expenditure (EE) and physical activity (PA). The aim of the study was to compare mean total energy expenditure (TEE) measured by ActiReg (R) and doubly labelled water (DLW) in obese subjects. TEE was measured by the DLW method during a period of 14d in fifty obese men and women with metabolic risk factors. During the same period ActiReg (R) recordings were obtained for 7d. RMR was measured by indirect calorimetry and also estimated by standardized equations. Because EE may be disproportionately increased in obese Subjects during weight-bearing activities, we established a new set of physical activity ratios (PAR). These ratios were based on oxygen uptake measurements during treadmill walking. The mean TEE according to the DLW was 13-94 (SD 2.47) MJ/d. Mean TEE calculated from the ActiReg (R) data and measured RMR was 13-39 (SD 2.26) MJ/d, an underestimation of 0.55 MJ (95 % CI 0.13, 0.98; P=0.012) or 3.9 %. RMR derived from standard equations based on weight, age and sex were overestimated while the RMR based on fat-free mass values in addition was underestimated. Despite slight underestimation ActiReg (R) may be used to measure TEE in obese subjects on two premises: RMR should be measured, and the increased EE during weight-bearing activities in obese subjects should be considered.

• Svendsen, Mette; Rissanen, Aila; Richelsen, Bjørn; Rössner, Stephan; Hanson, Fredrik & Tonstad, Serena (2008). Effect of orlistat on eating behavior among participants in a 3-year weight maintenance trial. Obesity. ISSN 1930-7381. 16, p. 327–333. doi: 10.1038/oby.2007.82. Full text in Research Archive
• Karlsen, Anette; Svendsen, Mette; Brevik, Asgeir; Bøhn, Siv K; Myhrstad, Mari C.W. & Thoresen, Magne [Show all 19 contributors for this article] (2008). Dietary intake of antioxidant-rich foods increase plasma antioxidants, enhance DNA repair capacity and reduce blood pressure in smoking, middle-aged men, PhD Thesis. Universitetet i Oslo. Full text in Research Archive

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• Angelsen, Madeleine Elisabeth; Najar, Hemen; Svendsen, Mette; Thoresen, Magne; Peleikis, Dawn Elisabeth & Retterstøl, Kjetil (2026). Clinical dietitian-led nutrition counseling and exercise to reduce cardiovascular risk in adults living with a BMI above 27 and severe mental illness: the NORMI-Heart trial protocol. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2026.1700251. Full text in Research Archive
• Ødegård, Rønnaug Astri; Juliusson, Pétur Benedikt; Kokkvoll, Ane Sofie; Kristiansen, Hege; Köpp, Unni Mette Stamnes & Rolin, Johannes [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2023). Ungdom med alvorlig fedme bør få legemiddel på blå resept. Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening (Tidsskriftet). ISSN 0029-2001. 143(3), p. 1–4. doi: 10.4045/tidsskr.23.0069. Full text in Research Archive
• Asbjørnsen, Rikke Aune; Smedsrød, Mirjam Lien; Hjelmesæth, Jøran; Hertel, Jens Kristoffer; Wentzel, Jobke & Johnson, Line Kristin [Show all 15 contributors for this article] (2020). eHealth design: Which persuasive and behavior change techniques meet the user needs for weight maintenance support? Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Conference Theme: Finding Innovative Solutions for Tomorrow's Health Challenges

• Asbjørnsen, Rikke Aune; Smedsrød, Mirjam Lien; Hjelmesæth, Jøran; Hertel, Jens Kristoffer; Gemert-Pijnen, Lisette Van & Varsi, Cecilie [Show all 21 contributors for this article] (2019). Building an eHealth intervention for weight maintenance after weight loss: Identifying behavioral design elements & user needs. Full text in Research Archive
• Mathisen, Therese Fostervold; Bratland-Sanda, Solfrid; Rosenvinge, Jan H; Pettersen, Gunn; Stensrud, Trine & Hansen, Bjørge Hermann [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2019). Fysisk helse og risikoprofil for ikke-smittsomme sykdommer hos kvinner med bulimia nervosa eller overspisingslidelse. Full text in Research Archive
• Asbjørnsen, Rikke Aune; Smedsrød, Mirjam Lien; Hjelmesæth, Jøran; Hertel, Jens Kristoffer; Gemert-Pijnen, Lisette Van & Varsi, Cecilie [Show all 23 contributors for this article] (2019). eCHANGE - E-helseverktøy for å støtte opp om langvarig vedlikehold av vekttap. Full text in Research Archive
• Mathisen, Therese Fostervold; Garthe, Ina; Svendsen, Mette; Fadnes, Lars T. & Poensgen, Katarina (2019). Ishockeyspiller har vært veganer i tre år: – Jeg presterer bedre. [Internet]. Nrk.no. Full text in Research Archive
• Svendsen, Mette (2015). Siste nytt om Middelhavskostholdet. Hjerteforum. ISSN 0802-1465. 28(3), p. 38–43. Full text in Research Archive
• Danielsen, Kjersti Karoline; Svendsen, Mette; Mæhlum, Synøve & Sundgot-Borgen, Jorunn (2013). People With Severe Obesity Can Exercise Enough to Lose Fat. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. ISSN 0195-9131. 45(5), p. 388–389. Full text in Research Archive
• Bøhn, Siv Kjølsrud; Myhrstad, Mari Charlotte; Thoresen, Magne; Holden, Marit; Tunheim, Siv Haugen & Karlsen, Anette [Show all 16 contributors for this article] (2008). Plant food phytochemicals modulate gene expression in human blood cells. Full text in Research Archive
• Heldal, Kristian; Hartmann, Anders; Leivestad, Torbjørn; Svendsen, Mette; Lien, Bjørn & Midtvedt, Karsten (2008). Premature patient death in kidney transplant recipients over 70 years of age is not predicted by scoring of co-morbidity AT transplantation. American Journal of Transplantation. ISSN 1600-6135. 8, p. 364–364. Full text in Research Archive
• Hustvedt, Bo Egil; Svendsen, Mette; Ellegård, Lars; Hallén, Jostein; Løvø, Arne & Tonstad, Serena (2006). Comparison of Energy Expenditure Measured with ActiReg and Doubly Labeled Water in 50 Obese subjects. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The ActiReg system is unique in using combined recordings of body position and motion to calculate energy expenditure (EE) and express physical activity (PA). ActiReg has two pairs of position and motion sensors connected by cables to a battery operated storage unit fixed to a waist belt. Each pair of sensors is attached by medical tape to the chest and the front of the right thigh respectively. The collected data are transferred to a PC and processed by a dedicated program ActiCalc. PURPOSE: To compare measurement of mean total energy expenditure (TEE) measured by ActiReg and doubly labeled water (DLW) in a group of obese subjects. METHODS: Fifty subjects (23 men and 27 women) with a mean BMI of 35.7 (range 30.5-43.8 kg/m2), mean age 43 range (24-65). TEE by DLW was measured during a period of 14 days and the results were calculated by the multipoint method. During the same period they wore ActiReg for 7 days. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) was measured with Deltatrac®, Metabolic Monitor (Datex Instrumentarium Corp., Helsinki, Finland) and also calculated from two predictive equations based on weight, age and sex (FAO/WHO/UNU 1985 and Mifflm et al 1990). Due to increased EE during weight bearing activities for the obese, a set of mean physical activity ratios (PAR) values was established by measurement of oxygen uptake during a walking session on a treadmill at (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 km/h). RESULTS: The mean TEE for the group measured by DLW was 13.94 SD 2.47, while the mean TEE calculated from the ActiReg data were 13.39 SD 2.26, 14.18 SD 2.59, 13.73 SD 2.32 based on RMR values measured or calculated from the predictive of FAO/WHO/UNU 1985, and Mifflm et al 1990 equations respectively. Testing the group means by paired two sample t test there was a significant difference between the DLW result and the value calculated from the measured RMR, p=0.01, while the TEE calculations based on the equations was not significantly different, p=0.34 and p=0.38. The correlation coefficients between the ActiReg results and the corresponding DLW results are 0.80 (p< 0.000), 0.75 (p<0.000), and 0.77 (p<0.000) respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The results show that ActiReg may be used to measure TEE in groups of obese subjects if the increased EE during weight bearing activities are considered.

• Svendsen, Mette; Hustvedt, Bo Egil & Tonstad, Serena (2006). Physical activity pattern in obese subjects with risk factors for the metabolic syndrome. Obesity Reviews. ISSN 1467-7881. 7(s2), p. 341–341. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Increasing physical activity is recommended for weight loss and maintenance, however the physical activity pattern and association between levels of activity and metabolic risk factors is less well documented. Methods: Physical activity was recorded with a position and movement recorder (Actireg®) for a mean ± sd of 4±2 days in 92 women and 122 men with a BMI of 35.8±4.1 kg/m2. The daily total energy expenditure (TEE) and the physical activity ratio (PAR) were calculated with a software program (Acticalc®). A PAR between 0-1.5 corresponds to lying down, standing and sitting, a PAR between 1.5-3 corresponds to walking with a speed of 1-2 km/h, a PAR between 3-6 corresponds to walking with a speed of 2-4.5 km/h and a PAR >6 corresponds to walking with a speed of >4.5 km/h. Results: TEE was 13.6±2.4 MJ in subjects with the full metabolic syndrome (n=141) and 13.4±2.1 in participants with less than 3 metabolic risk factors (n=73; P=0.5). The subjects spent 1070±108 min at a PAR between 0-1.5, 128±77 min at a PAR between 1.5-3, 215 ± 88 min at PAR between 3-6 and 25±20 min at PAR >6 (P>0.08 between genders). The number of minutes spent at a PAR >6 was inversely correlated to serum triglycerides (RS=-0.16, P=0.02). Conclusion: Obese subjects with metabolic risk factors spent a mean of 25 min/day at physical activity at a relatively high intensity, close to the recommended amount of physical activity. Increasing high intensity activity may be important to decrease levels of triglycerides. Conflict of interest: None. Founding: Own resources.

• Haugen, Margaretha; Birkeland, Eline; Jervell, Jak & Svendsen, Mette (2009). Assessment of very low calorie diets. Opinion of the Panel on nutrition, dietetic products, novel food and allergy of the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety. Nofima. ISSN 9788280823052. Full text in Research Archive

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