Satisfaction with weight and characteristics of eating disorders in high school

Abstract

Introduction: The prevalence of diseases related to eating behaviour disorders has increased among adolescents. The objective of this study is to analyse the satisfaction with body weight of schoolchildren as regards their body mass index and the strategies used to control their diet. Method: A total of 1197 students from secondary education (12---18 years) answered a questionnaire on eating habits and body weight control. Their weight and height were measured and body mass index was calculated. Results: More than two-thirds (68.1%) of the students who had an adequate BMI were satisfied with their weight. Greater dissatisfaction with weight is associated with overweight (OR = 10.23) and obesity (OR = 16.60). Students with overweight are on a diet having consulted an expert such as a physician or even the family, whereas among schoolchildren with normal weight there is a large percentage on a diet without consultation. About 13.87% of the schoolchildren have undertaken compensatory activities due to excessive eating. An overweight BMI is associated, with more than twice the risk (OR > 2.00), with the use of measures such as physical activity, vomiting, or fasting to compensate an excessive intake. Conclusions: Overweight and obese schoolchildren are more likely to be dissatisfied with their body and are more likely to use ploys such as vomiting, in order to compensate for the excess intake.