Eating behavior and perception of body shape in Japanese university students

Longitudinal associations between BMI, ideal-actual BMI gap, and body shape concern among young Chinese females

Objectives

Body shape concerns significantly impact young females' psychological wellbeing. This study aimed to estimate the short-term bidirectional relationships among BMI, ideal-actual BMI gap, and body shape concern across different BMI groups, and further explore their potential non-linear associations in young Chinese females.

Methods

We conducted a longitudinal study among Chinese females aged 18 to 30 in December 2023 (T1) and April 2024 (T2). Body mass index (BMI) was calculated using the formula: weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters, based on self-reported data. The body shape questionnaire 8-item version C (BSQ-8C) was adopted to measure levels of body shape concern. We utilized two-time-point cross-lagged panel models (CLPMs) to investigate temporal associations among BMI, ideal-actual BMI gap, and body shape concern, and used restricted cubic spline (RCS) fitted for multiple linear regressions to explore their potential non-linear relationships.

Results

A total of 688 young females were enrolled (mean age = 21.084, SD = 2.091). The percentages of underweight, normal, and overweight-obesity were 12.2%, 66.9%, and 20.9%, respectively. In the normal and overweight-obesity groups, the ideal BMI was significantly lower than the actual BMI at baseline. Among underweight females, 44.70% expressed a desire to further reduce their BMI. For all participants, the higher the BMI at T1, the smaller the ideal-actual BMI gap at T2, which means the more the ideal value of BMI was lower than its actual value at T2. In the normal BMI group, the ideal-actual BMI gap and body shape concern negatively predicted each other. A U-shaped correlation was observed between baseline body shape concern and BMI change in the overweight group.

Conclusion

Complex reciprocal effects of BMI, ideal-actual BMI gap, and body shape concern existed in different BMI groups. There is an urgent need for the whole society to pay more attention to the issue of body shape concern. In particular, health educators should organize programs to promote accurate weight perception among young women, and policymakers should enhance content regulation by restricting the promotion of extreme weight loss across media platforms. This approach would help avoid the negative impact of excessive concerns about body image on mental health.

Exploring the Impact of Emotional Eating Among University Students: A Literature Review

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Emotional eating has been considered as a trend to consume energy concentrated and tasty foods in response to adverse emotions. Emotional eating may harmfully influence physical and mental health among university students, worsening their daily quality of life and their academic performance. The aim of the present study is to critically summarize and analyze the currently available clinical data concerning the impact of emotional eating among university students.

METHODS

Comprehensive exploration of the currently available scientific literature was performed in the most precise scientific databases, utilizing relevant and representative keywords.

RESULTS

More than a few interrelationships were found between emotional eating and body mass index, physical activity, depression, anxiety, stress, social media overuse, nutritional behaviors, and COVID-19 lockdown concerning university students.

CONCLUSIONS

The currently available clinical studies support evidence that there are significant intercorrelations between emotional eating and several aspects of physical and mental health of university students. However, most of them have a cross-sectional design that cannot establish causality effects. In this respect, prospective surveys are strongly required to delineate the impact of emotional eating in the daily life of university students.

Sex-related perception of body image, attitude toward food, and nutritional status of university students, and their relationship with physical activity level

University life is a critical period for acquiring and consolidating healthy habits. This study examined the influence of sex on the body image perception, attitude toward food, nutritional status, and lifestyle habits of university students. This descriptive observational study included 163 university students from a program of Health Sciences. The data were collected with digitally distributed, self-administered questionnaires. Instruments such as the International Physical Activity Questionnaire were used to measure physical activity, the Eating Attitudes Test-26 to assess attitudes toward food, the Multidimensional Body Self Relations Questionnaire and Gardner's assessment for body image perception, and the Prevención con Dieta Mediterránea for adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Body composition was evaluated with an InBody 770 device. Most of the values found were within the appropriate range and not significant in practice, except in the Gardner test for women, where relevant values were found. Female participants demonstrated greater dissatisfaction with their body image and higher EAT-26 scores, indicating an increased risk for eating disorders. Male participants exhibited higher body mass index and physical activity levels. No significant differences were observed in adherence to the Mediterranean diet between the sexes. Correlations between the variables revealed that body dissatisfaction was associated with a higher percentage of body fat and visceral fat area in both sexes. Gender differences in body image perception and attitude toward food underscore the need for sex-specific interventions. Promoting a positive body image perception and healthy eating habits is essential for improving the physical and mental health of university students. Educational programs should consider these differences and emphasize the promotion of physical activity and adherence to balanced diets.

Relationship of dietary intake and eating behaviors with glycemic control and body weight under long-term treatment with dapagliflozin: an exploratory prospective study

Sodium glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors improve glycemic control and reduce body weight (BW) in individuals with type 2 diabetes. However, there are still concerns that compensatory hyperphagia may affect their effects. Here, we performed an exploratory prospective study to investigate whether dietary intake and/or eating behaviors affect glycemic control and BW under long-term treatment with dapagliflozin. Fifty-three Japanese individuals with type 2 diabetes received dapagliflozin 5 mg daily for 104 weeks, with frequent assessments of HbA1c, BW, body composition, dietary intake, and eating behaviors. Dietary intake was evaluated using a brief self-administered diet history questionnaire, and eating behavior was evaluated using the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire. The study was registered in the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000019192). At 104 weeks, HbA1c decreased by 0.5% and BW decreased by 2.8 kg (both p < 0.001), with a dominant decrease in body fat mass by 2.2 kg (p < 0.001). No significant change was observed in calorie intake or the proportion of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. The change (∆) in HbA1c was significantly correlated with basal HbA1c, basal triglyceride levels, ∆BMI (body mass index), ∆BFP (body fat percentage), and ∆ferritin levels. The ∆BMI was significantly correlated with only the ∆BFP. Neither the ∆HbA1c nor ∆BMI was significantly correlated with dietary intake, any type of eating behavior, or changes in these parameters during this study. In conclusion, dapagliflozin treatment improved glycemic control and reduced BW without being affected by any changes in dietary intake or eating behavior over 104 weeks.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13340-025-00794-1.

Empirical Redundancy? What Is the Distinct Role of Self-Objectification, Thin-Ideal Internalization, and Internalized Weight Stigma on Eating Pathology?

BACKGROUND

Sociocultural risk factors predict disordered eating and body dissatisfaction. Three internalized variables (self-objectification, thin-ideal internalization, and internalized weight stigma) have each been shown to relate to body dissatisfaction and disordered eating. Although these 3 variables have distinct conceptualizations and definitions, they show similarity in theoretical definitions, evidence of strong relationships between the 3 variables, and similarity in how they each relate to adverse health outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated potential construct proliferation among these 3 internalized sociocultural variables.

DESIGN

Data collection was cross-sectional, with undergraduate students completing online self-report measures from January to December 2023.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were 599 undergraduate students at a northwestern US university.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The Objectified Body Consciousness Scale body surveillance subscale, Sociocultural Attitudes Toward Appearance Questionnaire-4 thin/low body fat subscale, Modified Weight Bias Internalization Scale, and Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire-6.0 subscales and behavioral items were used to measure self-objectification, thin-ideal internalization, internalized weight stigma, and eating disorder symptoms.

STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED

Six multiple regression analyses were performed to examine how the 3 internalization variables related to the outcome variables: restraint, eating concern, shape concern, weight concern, binge eating, and compensatory behaviors. Given the multiple analyses performed, a Bonferroni correction adjusted alpha levels to .008.

RESULTS

All 6 regression models were significant (P < .001). Although self-objectification, thin-ideal internalization, and internalized weight stigma (IWS) each contributed uniquely to the body image variables (weight concern and shape concern), only IWS contributed uniquely to binge eating, and only thin-ideal internalization and IWS contributed uniquely to restraint, eating concerns, and compensatory behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides evidence that contradicts the premise of empirical redundancy and construct proliferation for these 3 internalization variables. Findings also highlight the potential to target each of the 3 internalized variables within prevention and intervention efforts. Particularly, future research should explore IWS within eating disorder prevention and treatment, given the unique relationship of IWS with all outcome variables.

How exercise frequency affects BMI: a nationwide cross-sectional study exploring key influencing factors, including dietary behavior

Purpose

Body Mass Index (BMI) is an important indicator for assessing obesity and related health risks. With the rapid socio-economic development and changes in lifestyle, abnormal BMI (such as underweight, overweight, and obesity) has become an increasingly serious public health issue. This study aims to explore the impact of exercise frequency on BMI among Chinese adults aged 19 to 59, and to analyze the role of dietary behaviors in regulating BMI, providing a basis for BMI intervention strategies.

Method

The study employs a multi-stage sampling method across 23 provinces, provincial capitals, and four municipalities in China, randomly selecting 120 cities from each region. Online surveys were conducted using Wenjuanxing by trained surveyors.

Result

A total of 8,611 individuals participated in the survey. Among them, 1,066 (12.38%) had a BMI < 18.5, 5,354 (62.18%) had a BMI between 18.5 and 23.9, and 2,191 (25.44%) had a BMI ≥ 24. Factors such as gender, age, marital status, monthly household income, smoking, and alcohol consumption significantly affected BMI (p < 0.05). The overall impact of exercise on abnormal BMI was -0.003, with a direct effect of -0.005. The mediating effect of dietary behaviors between exercise and abnormal BMI was 0.002, accounting for 92.48% of the total effect.

Conclusion

This study highlights the widespread prevalence of abnormal BMI among individuals aged 19 to 59 in China. A single exercise intervention may be insufficient to effectively improve abnormal BMI; thus, it should be combined with strategies aimed at enhancing dietary behaviors.

The healthy eating movement on social media and its psychological effects on body image

Introduction

The present study aims to investigate the relationship between social-media pressure, the tendency to internalize standards of beauty and attractiveness associated with thin bodies, which subsequently leads to distortion of body shape perceptions, and restrictive and emotional eating behavior disorders.

Methods

A survey-based research design was employed, utilizing an online questionnaire to collect data. The study sample consisted of 614 students, selected from the most prestigious universities in Bucharest. The questionnaire incorporated validated scales measuring Socio-Media Pressure for a Thin Body Image (SMPTB), Body Appreciation (BA), Body Shape Perception (BSP), Restrained Eating Behavior (REB), and Emotional Eating Behavior (EEB).

Results

The results confirmed the hypotheses of the research, meaning food restrictions are a way to diminish the level of dissatisfaction with body shape, to reduce the difference between the ideal body shape and the real one. Food restrictions are perceived as natural behaviors, appropriate to support the standards of beauty and attractiveness specific to this historical stage. Emotional eating disorders emerge as a way to compensate for the discomfort generated by low body esteem.

Discussion

The results underscore the pervasive influence of social media in shaping eating behaviors and body image perceptions. Food restrictions, framed as natural responses to societal pressures, highlight the need for interventions addressing the normalization of harmful beauty standards. Emotional eating behaviors reveal the psychological toll of body dissatisfaction, emphasizing the importance of strategies to foster positive body image and mental well-being. These findings provide a foundation for developing educational campaigns and therapeutic approaches targeting the psychological impact of social media on eating behaviors.

A snapshot of eating behaviors in undergraduate college students living in South Florida

Objective: To examine a) whether college students' eating behaviors are different by students' sex and/or body mass index (BMI) categories and b) the correlations between college students' eating behaviors and the degree to which they rely on internal bodily signals for food intake. Participants: Undergraduate college students 18-24 years old at a public university located in South Florida. Methods: Eligible students answered questionnaires to examine interoception, intuitive eating, and eating behaviors including emotional eating, restrained eating, cognitive restraint, external eating, and uncontrolled eating. Pearson correlation and independent t test were used (significance: p < 0.05). Results: Females reported lower interoception, intuitive eating, and higher emotional eating than males. Students with lower BMI had higher intuitive eating and lower restrained eating. Interoception was positively correlated with intuitive eating and negatively correlated with emotional, uncontrolled, restrained, and external eating. Conclusion: College students who have a better connection with their bodily signals have healthier eating behaviors and lower BMI.

Eating behaviour characteristics and dietary intake among Japanese junior high school students: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Psychological characteristics of eating behaviour may be related to dietary habits.

AIM

We investigated the association between eating behaviour characteristics and nutrition and food intake adequacy in Japanese adolescents.

METHODS

This cross-sectional survey was conducted among 136 junior high school students (boys: 90, girls: 46) at a junior high school in Tokyo, Japan. Eating behaviour was categorised into three types (emotional, external, and restrained) using scores on the Japanese version of the Dutch Eating Behaviour Questionnaire. Dietary intake was assessed using a validated, brief self-administered diet history questionnaire. Inadequate nutrient intake was determined by counting the number of nutrients not meeting the dietary reference intake (DRI) for the Japanese population. The statistical analyses included Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, and multiple regression analysis using JMP ver.14 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA). All reported p values are two-tailed, and p < 0.05 was regarded as statistically significant.

RESULTS

Multiple regression analysis showed that restrained eating score was inversely associated with the number of nutrients not meeting the DRI (β =  - 0.28; p = 0.0027) and with total weight of snack intake (β =  - 0.30; p = 0.0010). Neither emotional nor external eating was significantly associated with the number of nutrients not meeting the DRI and with total weight of snack intake.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that adolescents with low restrained eating scores may have less self-control over their eating behaviour and may therefore have inadequate dietary intake.

Eating behaviors associated with weight gain among university students worldwide and treatment interventions: A systematic review

Introduction: Emerging adulthood has been described as a period of risk for body weight gain. Several studies have indicated that the positive or negative health behaviors established during this stage, tend to prevail the rest of life. However, there are discrepancies in published studies on weight change in freshmen and there are disagreements on weight gain predictors. The present study reviewed the literature with the aim of knowing the eating behaviors associated with weight gain in university students. Method: A systematic search was conducted in three databases according to the PRISMA method during the months of February to November 2020. Results: 20 articles were included in the review. The main behaviors associated with weight gain were the consumption of sugary drinks, alcohol consumption, low consumption of vegetables and fruits, frequent self-consumption, eating unhealthy and low levels of food regulation.

Comparative study of eating behavior between patients with mental illness and healthy controls using the Japanese version of the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To examine the reliability and validity of the Japanese version of the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire (DEBQ-J) for patients with mental illness, and to determine the characteristics of eating behavior among these patients when compared with healthy controls.

METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN

In May 2018, 120 outpatients with mental illness and 132 healthy controls were surveyed. First, exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the DEBQ-J statement responses for both patients and healthy controls. Next, reliability coefficients were calculated for the eating behavior scale scores (emotional, restrained, and external eating) extracted from the factor analysis. The association between BMI and eating behavior was examined using Student's t-test and Pearson's correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

The DEBQ-J had a similar factor structure to that of the original DEBQ for healthy controls, with a cumulative contribution of 52.4% for the three factors, and alpha coefficients ranging from 0.87 to 0.91. For patients, factor analysis showed that four statements classified as emotional eating items in the original DEBQ were recategorized as external eating items, and the percentage of patients with obesity (BMI≥25) was 57.5%, compared with only 25.4% among the healthy controls. The patients with obesity tended to score higher on the external eating scale than did those with BMI<25.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients tended to blur the distinction between emotional feelings of mental irritability or anxiety and feelings in response to external stimuli. Monitoring of the DEBQ-J external eating score and appropriate intervention among patients living with mental illness may help to prevent obesity.

Validation of the Modified Weight Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS-M) among First-Generation Asian Immigrants

Internalized weight bias (i.e., the application of negative weight-based stereotypes to one's self-evaluation) is associated with adverse physical and mental health outcomes. The 10-item version of the Modified Weight Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS-M) is one of the most commonly used measures to assess internalized weight bias. However, studies examining the psychometric properties of the WBIS-M are limited in racially minoritized U.S.-based populations. The current study sought to examine the factor structure of the 10-item version of the WBIS-M in a sample of first-generation Asian immigrants, as both native and foreign-born Asian populations have consistently demonstrated higher rates of weight-related concerns relative to other racially minoritized groups. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess the factor structure, and a multiple indicator multiple cause modeling approach was used to assess associations between internalized weight bias and sociodemographic predictors. Results confirm the unidimensionality of the WBIS-M and provide preliminary support for a nine-item version. Identifying as a woman (p = .027) and perceiving oneself as overweight (p < .001) were significantly associated with greater internalized weight bias. When working with Asian and Asian American clients, mental health service providers should be aware of potential weight-related concerns and may consider using the WBIS-M to assess for internalized weight bias.

Iron Deficiency among School-Aged Adolescents in Hong Kong: Prevalence, Predictors, and Effects on Health-Related Quality of Life

Iron deficiency (ID) is a prevalent nutritional deficiency affecting children/adolescents worldwide. We reported (1) the prevalence of ID and ID with anemia (IDA) among Chinese school-aged adolescents, (2) clinical and dietary predictors of iron status, and (3) its impact on health-related qualities of life (HRQoL). This cross-sectional study recruited 183 boys and 340 girls (mean age = 17.55) from 16 schools in Hong Kong. ID is defined as serum ferritin <15 μg/L. The participants reported their dietary habits, menstrual patterns (girls), and HRQoL using structured questionnaires. The overall prevalence of ID was 11.1%. None of the boys had ID or IDA. Among girls, the rate of ID was 17.1% and IDA was 10.9%. One-third (36.3%) reported a regular habit of skipping ≥1 meal/day. Lower ferritin was found in adolescents who skipped meals (Est = -35.1, p = 0.017). Lower ferritin is correlated with poorer school functioning (Est = 0.81, p = 0.045) and fatigue (Est = 0.92, p = 0.016). Skipping meals is associated with poorer physical (p = 0.0017) and school functioning (p = 0.027). To conclude, 1 in 10 school-aged adolescents in Hong Kong are iron-deficient. The ID rate in girls (17.1%) is similar to that in other industrialized countries (5.2-16.6%). Future work should promote awareness on the potential health consequences of poor dietary habits on ID and the well-being of adolescents.

Relationship of masked obesity to self-reported lifestyle habits, ideal body image, and anthropometric measures in Japanese university students: A cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION

Masked obesity (MO) is defined as a normal body mass index (BMI) with a high body fat percentage (%BF), and is associated with the onset of lifestyle-related diseases. However, little is known about the current status of MO. Therefore, we investigated the relationship of MO to physical characteristics and lifestyle habits among Japanese university students.

METHODS

Between 2011 and 2019, we conducted a survey of 10,168 males and 4,954 females with BMI within the normal range (18.5 ≤ BMI < 25 kg/m2). MO was defined as %BF ≥ 20% in males and %BF ≥ 30% in females. Students completed a questionnaire containing items about lifestyle habits. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were measured, and hypertension was defined as systolic above 140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure above 90 mmHg. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relationships as follows: the relationship of masked obesity to self-reported lifestyle habits, ideal body image, and anthropometric measures; the relationship between hypertension and body indices.

RESULTS

The proportion of students with MO in 2019 was 13.4% in males and 25.8% in females, and the proportion of females increased over time. MO was associated with desire for weight loss (odds ratio, 95% confidence interval: 1.76, 1.53-2.02), intake of five macronutrients (0.79, 0.67-0.93), rice and wheat intakes (1.22, 1.01-1.47), sleep duration of < 7hr (0.85, 0.74-0.98), and exercise habit (0.71, 0.63-0.81) in males; and with balanced diet intake (0.79, 0.64-0.99) and exercise habit (0.65, 0.51-0.82) in females. There was a significant association of MO with hypertension in males (1.29, 1.09-1.53).

CONCLUSION

The percentage of female students with MO increased during the study period, and in males, MO may be a risk factor for hypertension. These results suggest that intervention for MO is needed in Japanese university students.

Body-Size Perception among First-Generation Chinese Migrants in Italy

Body-size perception is an important factor in motivating people to lose weight. Study aim was to explore the perception of body image among first-generation Chinese migrants living in Italy. A sample of 1258 Chinese first-generation immigrants and of 285 native Italians living in Prato, Italy, underwent blood pressure measurements, blood tests (with measurement of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides), and anthropometric measurements. Body-size perception was investigated with Pulvers’ figure rating scale using logistic or linear multivariable regression adjusted for age, gender, BMI, education and years spent in Italy. Chinese migrants had lower BMI and discrepancy score (preferred minus current body size) than Italians (p < 0.05 for both). After a logistic regression analysis, the discrepancy score remained lower in the Chinese than in the Italian cohort independently from BMI and other confounders (OR 0.68; 95%CI 0.50 to 0.92). In the Chinese cohort, female gender, BMI and years spent in Italy were positive determinants of discrepancy score (desire to be thinner), while age showed negative impact (p < 0.05 for all). Overweight is an important risk factor for diabetes, a very prevalent condition among first-generation Chinese migrants. The present study offers useful information and suggests the need for prevention programs specifically addressed to men.

Attitude toward breakfast mediates the associations of wake time and appetite for breakfast with frequency of eating breakfast

PURPOSE

We investigated associations among attitude toward breakfast, appetite for breakfast, wake time, personality traits, self-esteem, and frequency of eating breakfast in university students and proposed a model of factors affecting the frequency of eating breakfast.

METHODS

The participants, 555 Japanese university students (177 men, 378 women), completed a questionnaire about their height and weight, living with family, wake time, frequency of eating breakfast, appetite for breakfast, attitude toward breakfast, personality traits, and self-esteem. Appetite for breakfast was evaluated with a four-point Likert-type scale. Attitude toward breakfast was assessed with a 13-item questionnaire using a five-point Likert-type scale; responses to the items were summed, and divided by the number of items to produce a score.

RESULTS

Multiple linear regression analysis showed that frequency of eating breakfast was positively associated with appetite for breakfast and attitude toward breakfast, and inversely associated with wake time. Wake time was inversely associated with attitude toward breakfast, and appetite for breakfast was positively associated with attitude toward breakfast. Structural equation modeling showed that the structured model based on the multiple regression analysis was a good fit for both men (chi-square value to the degrees of freedom [χ²/df] = 1.096, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.023) and women (χ²/df = 1.510, RMSEA = 0.037).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that wake time and appetite for breakfast are directly associated with frequency of eating breakfast. Attitude toward breakfast mediates the indirect association between frequency of eating breakfast and both wake time and appetite for breakfast.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

V, cross-sectional descriptive study.

Adherence to Mediterranean Diet, Alcohol Consumption and Emotional Eating in Spanish University Students

(1) Introduction: The university period may increase the risk of different unhealthy habits, such as low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, high alcohol consumption and eating in response to specific emotions. The aim of this study was to detect early-risk alcohol consumption and alcohol dependence (ADS), the degree of adherence to the Mediterranean diet and emotional eating in university students of the Madrid community. (2) Methods: For each individual, anthropometric parameters, the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), AUDIT-Consumption (AUDIT-C), the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS) and the Emotional Eater Questionnaire (EEQ) were assessed. (3) Results: A total of 584 university students aged 20.5 (sex ratio = 0.39) were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. In total, 63.6% of students showed low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, with no differences by sex (64.3% female versus 61.5% male, p = 0.19). According to the AUDIT questionnaire, 26.2% of participants were categorized as high-risk drinkers and 7.7% as ADS. About 38.6% of the students were categorized as eating very emotionally or eating emotionally, and 37.2% were categorized as low emotional eaters. A weak positive correlation was observed between the EEQ and BMI in female students (rho= 0.15, p = 0.03). (4) Conclusions: University students in our sample showed a low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, an important high-risk alcohol consumption and low emotional eating.

Personality traits and BMI trends over three years in Japanese university students

In Europe and America, associations between personality traits and body-mass index (BMI) have been reported. However, in Japan, the association between personality traits and BMI (i.e., thinness and obesity) has not been well studied. In this study, we investigated the relationship between Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) personality traits and changes in BMI status among Japanese students during their university attendance. We measured the height and weight of 5,340 students in a Japanese university during annual medical checkups and calculated their BMI. The students' personality traits were measured using the short Japanese version of the TCI at university admission. The participants were divided into seven groups based on how BMI changed from the first year to the fourth year at university. In men, compared to the group that maintained normal BMI status (N = 2,189) over time (i.e., the control group), the group that maintained thinness status (N = 226) were lower in Reward Dependence, and the group whose status improved from thinness to normal (N = 117) were higher in Harm Avoidance. In women, compared with the control group (N = 1,510), the group that maintained thinness status (N = 302) was lower in Novelty Seeking, and the group whose status worsened from normal to thinness (N = 127) was higher in Harm Avoidance. Weak associations were found between thinness and TCI personality traits among Japanese university students. Further elaboration of the relationship between obesity or thinness and personality traits may help to provide effective preventive interventions in these areas.

The Relationship between Restrained Eating, Body Image, and Dietary Intake among University Students in China: A Cross-Sectional Study

This study aims to explore the association between restrained eating, body image, and dietary intake among Chinese college students. This cross-sectional study included 1301 college students at two universities in Hunan Province. Electronic questionnaires were used to collect information including students’ demographic characteristics, restrained eating, perception of body weight, body satisfaction, and dietary intake. Anthropometric measurements were collected to calculate body mass index (BMI). The prevalence of high restrained eating was 52.8%. Students who were dissatisfied with their bodies or overestimated their body weight showed a higher tendency toward high restrained eating (p < 0.05). Students with high restrained eating tended to eat fruits and eggs more frequently, while the frequency of eating domestic animals and poultry, sugar-sweetened beverages, and fast food were the opposite. Moreover, high restrained eating was a risk factor for low dietary diversity (odds ratio (OR) = 1.384, 95% confidence interval: 1.002~1.912). The high incidence of restrained eating among Chinese college students and its energy-restricted diets that may lead to possible health implications require attention. Further studies are needed to investigate the characteristics of college students’ restrained eating to tailor appropriate interventions for forming positive body images and promoting healthy eating behaviors, thus, improving dietary quality.

Correlates of over- or under-estimation of body size among resource-poor urban dwellers in a sub-Saharan African city

BACKGROUND

Individual perception of body size has implications for lifestyle behaviours including dietary habits and weight management practices.

AIM

To examine factors related to respondents' estimation of their body sizes compared to their body mass index (BMI).

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional survey comprised a sample of 917 adults in urban poor Accra, Ghana. Silhouette figure ratings were used to assess perceived body size and ideal body size at a community level. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine correlates of respondents overestimating or underestimating their body sizes.

RESULTS

Approximately, 69% of respondents either underestimated or overestimated their body sizes. About a quarter of respondents perceived being overweight as the preferred ideal body size in their communities. The mean BMI of females and males who underestimated their body sizes were within the overweight category and normal weight category, respectively. Gender, educational level, employment status, the community of residence, and ethnicity were associated with how respondents correctly estimated, over- or under-estimated their body sizes. There was evidence of ethnicity mediating the association between the community of residence and body size estimation.

CONCLUSION

Weight management interventions must be mindful of the socio-demographic and cultural proclivities of the targeted populace for optimum impact.

Psychometric properties of the Japanese version of the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire for Children

This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the 20-item Japanese version of the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire for Children (DEBQ-C). A population-based sample of 502 Japanese school children who were fifth- and sixth-graders in elementary schools and first- and second-graders in junior high schools was assessed. A sample was randomly split into two subsamples, one for exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and another for confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Internal consistency estimates for subscales (restrained, emotional, and external) were evaluated using Cronbach's alpha. Measurement invariance was examined across each subgroup (genders: boys and girls, school categories: elementary school and junior high school, body mass index (BMI) categories: underweight, normal weight, and overweight) by using multi-group CFA. The Japanese version of the DEBQ-C demonstrates good results of item analysis. The three-factor structure of the original DEBQ-C was supported by both EFA and CFA. The reliability of each factor was also satisfied (restrained: α = 0.86, emotional: α = 0.90, external: α = 0.86). Results of multi-group confirmatory factor analysis supported its metric and scalar or partial scalar measurement invariance across all subgroups. In gender subgroup, girls scored higher on restrained eating. In school subgroup, junior high school children scored higher on emotional and external eating. In BMI subgroup, overweight children scored higher on restrained eating. These findings suggest that the Japanese version of the DEBQ-C is a psychometrically valid and reliable instrument for assessing eating behaviors across gender, school categories, and BMI categories in Japanese children.

Study of bodyweight and eating attitude among female university members in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A comparison between different methods of weight assessment

Background:

The economic transition in Saudi Arabia imposed negative consequences leading to an increase in the prevalence of obesity and its sequelae. Despite the commitment of high authorities in KSA to combat obesity, so far 25% of Saudis are still obese. The association between obesity, disordered eating attitude, and body image needs to be addressed.

Aim:

To explore the relationship between obesity, eating attitude, and body image satisfaction among students and employees at Princess Nourah University (PNU) and to compare the different modalities of assessing body weight.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study using a convenient sampling technique comprised of 550 participants. Obesity was assessed by anthropometric measurements and body composition monitor (BF511). Eating attitude test (EAT26) was used to determine eating attitude while body image satisfaction score was determined using body shape questionnaire (BSQ).

Results:

Around 382 (69.5%) students and 168 employees participated in the study. Obesity was significantly higher among employees (48.2%) vs students (27.7%) (P < 0.001). Body fat composition showed significant positive correlations ranging from weak-to-moderate (0.13 to 0.44) with other body measurements for students and employees. The disordered eating attitude was maximized among obese compared to other BMI groups (P < 0.05). Percentage of disordered eating attitude score correlated positively with BMI: 35.2% vs 52.3% among underweight and obese, respectively (P = 0.001). There was no statistical difference in eating attitudes between students and employees. BSQ score correlates positively with BMI (P < 0.001), it was 36.73 ± 18.68 vs 57.92 ± 18.50 for underweight and obese, respectively. The effect of BMI on body image score was 19.1%.

Discussion and Conclusion:

Obesity remains a significant health problem among Saudi females. Increased BMI is associated with increased disordered food attitude and the effect of BMI on body image score was minimal.

Association of anthropometric status, perceived stress, and personality traits with eating behavior in university students

PURPOSE

We investigated the association of anthropometric status, perceived stress, and personality traits with eating behavior in university students.

METHODS

The participants, 1546 Japanese university students (964 males, 582 females), completed a questionnaire which asked for their current height and weight, ideal height and weight, eating behaviors, perceived stress, and personality traits.

RESULTS

Restrained eating was higher in normal-weight participants compared with underweight participants in both males and females (p < 0.001, both males and females). Restrained eating in normal-weight males was significantly lower in normal-weight females (p < 0.001). In addition, normal-weight males reported less stress than normal-weight females (anxiety/uncertainty, p = 0.037; tiredness/physical responses, p < 0.001; autonomic symptoms, p < 0.001; depression/feeling, p < 0.001) and underweight males (tiredness/physical responses, p = 0.018; autonomic symptoms, p = 0.001). Moreover, among normal-weight males, neuroticism was significantly lower compared with normal-weight females (p < 0.001). In multiple regression analysis, male participants revealed positive association between restrained eating and body mass index (β = 0.199, p < 0.001) or body mass index difference (β = - 0.170, p = 0.001). In contrast, female revealed more significant associations between emotional and external eating and perceived stress or personality traits compared with males.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that associations between eating behavior and anthropometric status or psychological factors are different by each eating behavior, which is partly influenced by gender difference.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

V, cross-sectional descriptive study.

Eating Attitudes, Weight Control Behaviors, Body Image Satisfaction and Depression Level Among Indian Medical and Nursing Undergraduate Students

This was a cross sectional descriptive study carried out among Medical and Nursing students to assess the presence of eating disorders. Data was collected using self administered 'Sick, Control, One, Fat, Food' (SCOFF) and 'Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26)' questionnaires. It was found that 34.1% and 10.4% of the participants were at high risk to suffer from eating disorders on SCOFF and EAT-26 scales. Further, age, gender and education found to have significant association on SCOFF and EAT-26 scores (p < 0.05). Thus, the findings suggest the need for effective interventions to prevent depression and eating disorders among the future health professionals.

Food-related behaviours among individuals with overweight/obesity and normal body weight

BACKGROUND

Emotional eating is a factor associated with a negative body image and other problematic eating behaviours. In this context little is known about differences between individuals with overweight and obesity and those with normal body weight. The main aim of the study was to evaluate the role of emotional eating in the relationship between the desire to consume chocolate and the wish to avoid social situations related to food and body exposures. For this purpose, we tested the direct, indirect and buffer effects. In addition, we used moderated mediation by introducing snacking into the model.

METHODS

The study included 123 outpatients with excessive body weight and 123 individuals with normal weight. The mean of body mass index (BMI) in the first group was 30.19 kg/m2 (SD = 4.37) and, in the second, it was 23.02 kg/m2 (SD = 1.20). The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire, the Attitudes to Chocolate Questionnaire and the Body Image Avoidance Questionnaire were used.

RESULTS

Results show that in all individuals, the greater emotional eating is, the greater the desire for chocolate consumption and avoidance of social situations related to food and body exposures are. In addition, the desire for chocolate consumption are positively associated with avoidance of social situations related to food and body exposures in both group. Among individuals with excessive and normal body weight, emotional eating is a significant mediator in the relationship between desire for chocolate consumption and avoidance of social situations related to food and body exposures. However, it does not moderate the relationship between these variables. Outcomes show that there is a significant model of moderated mediation of the link between social situation-avoidance related to food and body exposure and the desire to consume chocolate through emotional eating, moderated by snacking among individuals with normal body weight. A similar effect has not been discovered in the group with excessive body weight.

CONCLUSION

The presented results show that among people with varied BMI categories, emotional eating is connected to craving chocolate and avoidance of social situations related to food and body exposure that plays only the role of mediation. In addition, snacking is crucial for this relationship among the group with normal body weight.

Relationship between body image and weight status in east Asian countries: comparison between South Korea and Taiwan

BACKGROUND

There are many studies examining the relationship between body image and weight status that compare Western and Asian countries. One limitation of these past studies was assuming that all Asian countries are a homogeneous group. To fill the gap in the literature, this study examined the relationship between body image and weight status between participants from two Asian countries.

METHODS

This study utilized data from the 2010 module of the East Asian Social Survey from South Korea (n = 1576) and Taiwan (n = 2199), which contained questions related to body image. Body image was originally measured using a five-point Likert-type question, which was collapsed into three categories for the analysis. Weight status was derived from body mass index scores, which were calculated using self-reported weight and height. A set of multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the relationship between body image and weight status, stratified by country.

RESULTS

A significant relationship between body image and weight status after controlling for relevant covariates was reaffirmed in this study in the South Korean and Taiwanese. Results indicated that the relationship between body image and weight status of the Taiwanese sample was similar to the relationship in the South Korean sample. However, the results from a further analysis showed that the strength of the relationship across the two Asian countries appeared to be different.

CONCLUSIONS

The weight over-perception was more evident in South Korea than in Taiwan. Females were more vulnerable to societal pressures for thinness and the misperception of the ideal body than males. Interventions to improve distorted body image perception were needed in both countries.

The Prevalence of Dietary Supplement Use among College Students: A Nationwide Survey in Japan

To clarify the prevalence of dietary supplement use among college students, we conducted Internet-based nationwide questionnaire surveys with 157,595 Japanese college students aged between 18 to 24 years old who were registrants of Macromill Inc. (Tokyo, Japan). Among the 9066 respondents (response rate 5.8%), 16.8% were currently using dietary supplements. The prevalence of dietary supplement use did not differ significantly between males (17.1%) and females (16.7%). However, it increased according to their grade (13.1% to 20.5%), and it was higher in medical and pharmaceutical college students (22.0%) compared to others (16.7%). The main purpose of dietary supplement use was for the health benefits in both males and females. Other reasons were to build muscle in males, and as a beauty supplement and for weight loss in females. According to the purpose of dietary supplement use, the most commonly-used dietary supplements were vitamin/mineral supplements in both males and females, then protein and weight loss supplements in males and females, respectively. Although most students obtained information about dietary supplements via the Internet, they typically purchased the supplements from drug stores. Of the students surveyed, 7.5% who were currently using or used to use dietary supplements experienced adverse effects, with no significant difference between genders (8.8% in male, 7.0% in female). In conclusion, the prevalence of dietary supplement use increased with grade among college students in Japan. Some of them experienced adverse effects. Education may be important to prevent adverse effects resulting from supplement use in college.

Body mass index and self-rated health in East Asian countries: Comparison among South Korea, China, Japan, and Taiwan

There have been conflicting findings regarding the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and self-rated health (SRH) worldwide. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between BMI and SRH by comparing its relationship in four East Asian countries: South Korea, China, Japan, and Taiwan. Using data from the East Asian Social Survey, the relationship between weight status and SRH status was investigated and compared between four countries, China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. An ordinal logit regression model was estimated for each country, and the results were compared. We found that the relationship between weight status and SRH status differed across the four countries. In China, people who were overweight reported better SRH scores than those of normal weight, whereas in Japan, obese and severely obese people reported poor scores. In contrast, South Koreans who were underweight, obese, or severely obese reported poor ratings of health status than those of normal weight. In Taiwan, however, no differences in respondents' weight status were found across SRH scores. There were notable differences in the relationship between BMI and SRH status in four East Asian countries. Individual countries should consider these relationships when designing and implementing obesity intervention programs.

Investigating Vulnerability for Developing Eating Disorders in a Multi-confessional Population

The present study aimed to examine the vulnerability to eating disorders (ED) among 949 Lebanese female young adults as well as its association with stress, anxiety, depression, body image dissatisfaction (BID), dysfunctional eating, body mass index, religious affiliation (Christian, Muslim, Druze or Other), religiosity and activity level. Results showed that anxiety had the greatest effect on increasing the predisposition to ED, followed by stress level, BID, depression and restrained eating. Affiliating as Christian was found to significantly decrease the vulnerability to developing an ED. Furthermore, the interaction of anxiety with intrinsic religiosity was found to have a protective role on reducing ED. The current study emphasized a buffering role of intrinsic religiosity against anxiety and ED vulnerability.

Body size perception and ideal body size in overweight and obese young adult women

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine the differences among actual body size, perceived body size, and ideal body size in overweight and obese young adult women.

METHODS

Actual body size was assessed by body mass index (BMI), while self-perceived and ideal body sizes were assessed by the Body image assessment tool-body dimension. Descriptive statistics were calculated and analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed on actual BMI as a function of perceived BMI.

RESULTS

Of the 42 participants included in the study, 12 were overweight (25 ≤ BMI < 30), 18 were obese 1 (30 ≤ BMI < 35), and 12 were obese 2 (35 ≤ BMI ≤ 39.48). The mean ideal body size of participants was 25.34 ± 1.33. Participants in general perceived their body size (BMI: 35.82 ± 1.06) to be higher than their actual body size (32.84 ± 0.95). Overweight participants had a significantly higher mean body size misperception than obese 2 individuals (µ dif = -6.68, p < .001).

CONCLUSION

Perception accuracy of body size differs in women by BMI. Weight loss programs need to be tailored to consider body size misperception in order to improve treatment outcomes for overweight and obese young women.

Explaining rigid dieting in normal-weight women: the key role of body image inflexibility

Restrictive dieting is an increasing behavior presented by women in modern societies, independently of their weight. There are several known factors that motivate diet, namely a sense of dissatisfaction with one's body and unfavorable social comparisons based on physical appearance. However, dieting seems to have a paradoxical effect and has been considered a risk factor for weight gain and obesity in women and for maladaptive eating. Nevertheless, the study of the emotional regulation processes that explain the adoption of inflexible and rigid eating behaviors still remains little explored. In this line, the present study aims to explore why normal-weight women engage in highly rigid and inflexible diets. We hypothesize that body and weight dissatisfaction and unfavorable social comparisons based on physical appearance explain the adoption of inflexible eating rules, through the mechanisms of body image inflexibility. The current study comprised 508 normal-weight female college students. Path analyses were conducted to explore the study's hypotheses. Results revealed that the model explained 43 % of inflexible eating and revealed excellent fit indices. Furthermore, the unwillingness to experience unwanted events related to body image (body image inflexibility) mediated the impact of body dissatisfaction and unfavorable social comparisons on the adoption of inflexible eating rules. This study highlights the relevance of body image inflexibility to explain rigid eating attitudes, and it seems to be an important avenue for the development of interventions focusing on the promotion of adaptive attitudes towards body image and eating in young women.

Influences of peers' and family members' body shapes on perception of body image and desire for thinness in Japanese female students

PURPOSE

The present study investigated the influence of peers' and family members' body shapes on the perception of body image and desire for thinness in Japanese female students.

METHODS

The study included 342 female, Japanese university students between the ages of 18 years and 22 years. They completed an anonymous questionnaire, which included questions related to anthropometry and body perception. Eating behavior was assessed by the Japanese version of the Eating Attitude Test-26.

RESULTS

Many students overestimated their body shape (81.2% of underweight students and 74.6% of normal students) and had a desire for thinness (41.0% of underweight students, 88.2% of normal students, and 100% of overweight students). One of the main reasons for the overestimation of their body shape was comparison with others. Participants who were interested in a friend's body shape were almost three times more likely to have a desire for thinness than those who were not interested in a female friend's body shape (odds ratio: 3.06, P=0.014).

CONCLUSION

The results indicate a possibility that a female Japanese student's young female friends' body shapes, influences her desire for thinness or her perception of her own body shape.

Eating Attitudes and Related Factors in Turkish Nursing Students

Background:

Changing eating behaviors might trigger obesity, deficiency, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and reactive eating disorders.

Objectives:

This study aimed to determine eating attitudes of nursing students in the western Black-Sea region of Turkey as well as to examine the effects of demographic features, self-esteem, body image, income level, and family structure on their eating attitudes.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 310 nursing students between January and February 2014. Data were collected using the personal information form, Eating Attitudes Test (EAT), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), Beck Depression Scale (BDS), Body-Cathexis Scale (BCS), and Body Mass Index (BMI). Data were evaluated by descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Pearson correlation analysis.

Results:

About 30.0% of Turkish nursing students had negative eating attitudes. There was a significant positive correlation between the BDS and EAT scores (P < 0.001). There was a significant negative correlation between RSES scores and EAT scores of nursing students (P < 0.001). A statistically significant difference was found between the father’s occupation (P < 0.05) and mother’s working condition (P < 0.05), and the students’ eating attitudes.

Conclusions:

Psychological status, self-esteem, economic level, and place of residence of nursing students may be the potential factors for eating disorders.