Abstract
BackgroundFemale university students are at risk for weight gain and use of inappropriate weight-loss strategies. By gaining a greater understanding of the weight-loss strategies used by and weight management related characteristics of these students, effective weight management interventions for this vulnerable group can be developed.MethodsTwo hundred and fifty female students from South Africa universities, aged 18–25 years, participated in this cross-sectional study; 162 attempted weight loss during the year preceding the study (dieters) and 88 were non-dieters. Weight and height were measured and BMI (kg/m2) computed. A self-administered questionnaire was used to record all other variables. Weight loss strategies were described for dieters and compared between BMI groups within the dieters group. Weight management related characteristics were compared between dieters and non-dieters. Statistical tests included Pearson Chi-square test, independent samples t-test or Mann-Whitney U test (depending on distribution of the data). Predictors for a higher BMI and being overweight/obese (BMI ≥25 kg/m2) were identified using regression models.ResultsHealthy weight-loss strategies included increased exercise and fruit/vegetable intake and decreased intake of sugar and fat containing items; unhealthy methods included eating little food and skipping meals; and extreme weight loss strategies included laxatives and vomiting. The most commonly used weight-loss product was Herbex. Dieters were characterized by a higher BMI, overestimation of their weight (especially normal weight students), dissatisfaction with weight and select body parts, higher intake of breakfast and healthy foods, lower intake of unhealthy foods, higher levels of vigorous physical activity, higher use of select informal weight-loss information sources and experiencing more pressure to lose weight from mothers, siblings and friends. Predictors of higher BMI and/or increased risk for BMI ≥25 included weight-loss attempt during the past year, race, dissatisfaction with waist, perception of currently being “chubby,” and higher frequencies of intake of a snack and fatty foods.ConclusionAttempting weight-loss is common among female students and predicts BMI. Healthy (mainly), unhealthy and extreme weight loss methods are used. Dieters are characterized by a less realistic body image, lower body satisfaction, higher pressure to lose weight, use of informal weight-management information and a healthier life-style.
Highlights
Female university students are at risk for weight gain and use of inappropriate weight-loss strategies
Weight-loss strategies used by dieters The study included 250 students of whom 162 (64.8 %) had attempted to lose weight in the previous year and 88 (45.2 %) had not attempted weight loss in the past year
Healthy weight-loss strategies were commonly used by the dieters (n = 162)
Summary
Female university students are at risk for weight gain and use of inappropriate weight-loss strategies. A high prevalence of overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) (25.3 %) and obesity (21.7 %) is seen in South African females aged 18 to 24 years [3]. It has been well documented that female students, especially those in their first year at tertiary education institutions, are prone to gaining weight [4]. The rise in overweight and obesity has contributed to increasing numbers of people within populations who need to, and attempt to lose weight [7]. This may be the case with university students [8, 9]. The reality for most dieters is that weight-loss attempts have a poor success rate and the minority who do succeed in losing weight regain most of the lost weight within a few years [10]
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