Abstract
This study investigated the relationship of behavioral factors, such as snack choices, obesity stereotypes and smoking with adolescents’ body weight. Individual-level data for 1254 Greek youths were selected via a formal questionnaire. Snack choices seem to be gender specific with girls showing a stronger preference for healthier snacks. Frequent consumption of high-calorie and more filling snacks was found to increase Body Mass Index (BMI) in both genders. Fruit/vegetable snacks were associated with lower body weight in females, whereas cereal/nut snacks had a negative influence in males’ BMI. The majority of participants expressed anti-fat attitudes and more boys than girls assigned positive attributes to lean peers. The endorsement of the thin-ideal was positively associated with the BMI of both adolescent boys and girls. This study also revealed that neglecting potential endogeneity issues can lead to biased estimates of smoking. Gender may be a crucial moderator of smoking–BMI relationships. Male smokers presented a higher obesity risk, whereas female smokers were more likely to be underweight. Nutrition professionals should pay attention to increase the acceptance of healthy snack options. Gender differences in the influence of weight stereotypes and smoking on BMI should be considered in order to enhance the efficacy of obesity prevention interventions.
Highlights
In recent years, the prevalence of obesity has dramatically increased to such a degree in developed countries that it can be characterized as an epidemic [1]
This study explored the influence of snack consumption, body weight stereotypes and smoking behavior on adolescents’ Body Mass Index (BMI)
Substantially higher percentages of girls than boys showed a clear preference for healthier snack options with a higher consumption frequency of dairy products (78.7% vs. 70.7%), fresh fruits and vegetables (48.2% vs. 26.1%), and a less frequent consumption of more energy dense foods, such as deep fried foods (4.1% vs. 17.6%), confectionery (12.3% vs. 29.5%), sugar sweetened beverages (23.9% vs. 36.2%), and sandwiches/pies/pizzas (25.4% vs. 46.7%)
Summary
The prevalence of obesity has dramatically increased to such a degree in developed countries that it can be characterized as an epidemic [1]. This major public health challenge is especially addressed among youth populations who may be affected by longterm complications, including maintaining excessive body weight into adulthood [2,3]. Over the past two decades, overweight and obesity rates in Greece have reached worrying levels [4] with scholars and mass media providing extended reports to communicate health and nutrition recommendations during this public health emergency. The economic recession during the last decade was followed by severe austerity measures and material deprivation, which have altered the dietary habits of adolescents and their families leading to poorer nutrition choices [11])
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
