Level of body image satisfaction and prevalence of maladaptive eating behavior among sports university students with different nutritional status

Abstract

Aim. To assess the level of body image satisfaction and the prevalence of maladaptive eating behavior (МEB) among students of a sports university with different types of nutritional status (NS).Materials and methods. 278 students of the Volga Region State University of Physical Culture, Sports and Tourism were surveyed using a body image questionnaire and the Eating Disorder Inventory scale. The body composition of participants was assessed. The distribution of students by NS types was carried out on the basis of BMI data, percentage of fat mass, and the discrepancy between actual and ideal weight.Results. The study showed that 47.5 ± 3.0% and 38.5±2.9% of the respondents had an insufficient and normal NS, respectively. Only 14.0±2.1% of the students had an excessive NS. Among those extremely dissatisfied with their appearance, individuals with an insufficient NS prevailed (69.5±4.5%), with 21.0±3.9% having an excessive NS and only 9.5±2.9% having a normal NS. The largest number of individuals with clinical manifestations of MEB was established among the students with an insufficient NS (61.8±6.1%).Conclusion. Among the surveyed sports university students, individuals with insufficient and normal NS prevailed; the share of students with excessive NS was insignificant. Insufficient NS was often associated with a distortion in the perception of the body image and maladaptive EB symptoms. The majority of individuals with an adequate attitude towards their appearance had a normal NS. Psychological characteristics and behavioral stereotypes typical of people with MEB were found in students not only with insufficient, but also with normal NS types.