TNF and Insulin resistance: Our sample at baseline was characterized by overproduction of proinflammatory mediators, such as circulating levels of C-reactive protein (4.45 ± 1.39 μg/mL), TNF-α (33.24 ± 3.10 pg/mL), and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR 2.61 ± 1.27) and normal lipid profile, several of which are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes.