Body Image Perception in Association with Healthy Lifestyle Behaviour's in Lebanese Men and Women

Abstract

Background: Body image is an individual’s self-perceptions and attitudes about his or her physical appearance, leading to either satisfaction or dissatisfaction. These self-perceptions can affect lifestyle of both men and women of all ages. Objectives: The purpose of the study is to determine the relationship between body image satisfaction and healthy lifestyles among adults (men and women). Methods: A sample of 400 participants (221 women and 179 men) aged between 18-64 years were randomly recruited for analysis. Anthropometric measurements were collected and the body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Participants completed a questionnaire about body image, health-promoting lifestyle, and physical activity. Results: 60% of participants were of normal BMI, 56% underweight, with 34% were overweight and obese. Men tended to be more overweight and obese than women who were mostly of normal BMI (72%), and 9% only were underweight (p<0.001). 59% of participants were satisfied with their body image compared to 41% who were not satisfied. 19% of participants were physically active and 81% were not. Men reported more days of physical activity than women (p=0.005). Body image was inversely related to healthy lifestyle. Correlation was not moderately strong but significant (p=0.037). Conclusion: This study showed that the relation between body satisfaction and healthy lifestyle behaviors was not strong due to the fact that body image is multifactorial construct that depends on many factors other than healthy lifestyle behaviors. More studies among body image perception and effect on life domains are still under focus. Health care providers are encouraged to assess and discuss weight, shape, and aging-related concerns with all mature women and men, and to maintain sensitivity when talking about weight management. Exercise may be a primary mechanism for enhancing body image, and future studies should explore best practices for how to incorporate exercise and physical activity into body image interventions. Detailed longitudinal studies are needed to understand body satisfaction in diverse populations and by weight status.