Association between self-perception of body image and food patterns in students of nutrition and dietetics

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to associate eating patterns with the self-perception of the nutritional state in Chilean university students of Nutrition and Dietetics. Material and methods: In this cross-sectional study, 634 students of Nutrition and Dietetics were assessed, 86.4% were women. Each student was shown seven anatomical models corresponding to values of body mass index (BMI) of 18, 22, 25, 27, 30, 35 and 40 kg/m2, and had to choose the model with which he/she best identifies. The anthropometric assessment was carried out, the real BMI was calculated and compared with the perceived one, and a food survey was applied. Results: It is observed that individuals who overestimate their weight show a lower fulfillment percentage of the daily fruit and vegetable intake; however, the larger percentage of subjects who meet the recommended guidelines is included in the group that sees itself just like the model. There is an association between a good perception of the body image and a daily consumption of 3 or more serves of fruit OR = 0.554 (IC 95%; 0.360-0.852), 2 or more serves of vegetables per day OR = 0.438 (IC 95%; 0.283-0.678), and a lower alcohol intake once a week OR = 0.451 (IC 95%; 0.270-0.752). Conclusion: Students who show an adequate consumption of fruit and vegetables define their nutrition as healthy and ideal, and tend to con-sistently perceive themselves in relation to their nutritional state. Moreover, these subjects have a lower intake of unhealthy food.