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Magni O, Detopoulou P, Fappa E, Perrea A, Levidi D, Dedes V, Tzoutzou M, Gioxari A, Panoutsopoulos G. Eating Attitudes, Stress, Anxiety, and Depression in Dietetic Students and Association with Body Mass Index and Body Fat Percent: A Cross-Sectional Study. Diseases 2024; 12:108. [PMID: 38785763 PMCID: PMC11120143 DOI: 10.3390/diseases12050108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
University students face challenges impacting psychology and dietary choices. The present work examined the association between eating attitudes, stress, anxiety, and depression to body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage in Dietetics students. Respondents completed the Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26), the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS), a validated Food Frequency Questionnaire, and the Hellenic Physical Activity Questionnaire (HPAQ). Anthropometry and a bioimpedance analysis were performed. The EAT-26 score was 11 (8-16) and the DASS score was 20 (11-36) (medians and interquartile ranges). Disordered eating was detected in 20% of men and 15% of women. Depressive symptomatology was detected in 30% of males and 23% of females, anxiety in 35% of males and 40% of females, and stress in 29% of males and 35% of females. EAT-26 and DASS scores were highly correlated (r = 0. 0.221, p = 0.001). The EAT-26 oral control subscale (B = 0.430, SE = 0.184, p = 0.026) was positively correlated with BMI in men in the models, adjusted for age, physical activity, and Mediterranean Diet Score, while no association was documented for % body fat. The DASS depression score was not related to BMI in multi-adjusted models. In conclusion, disordered eating, depression, stress, and anxiety are present in this sample of university students. The relationship between disordered eating and BMI needs consideration in programs targeting overweight or underweight in Dietetics students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Magni
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, University of the Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
| | - Paraskevi Detopoulou
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, University of the Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, General Hospital Korgialenio Benakio, 11526 Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelia Fappa
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, University of the Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
| | - Anastasia Perrea
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, University of the Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
| | - Despoina Levidi
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, University of the Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
| | - Vasilios Dedes
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, University of the Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
| | - Milia Tzoutzou
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, University of the Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
| | - Aristea Gioxari
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, University of the Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
| | - Georgios Panoutsopoulos
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, University of the Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
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Fernandes S, Costa C, Nakamura IS, Poínhos R, Oliveira BMPM. Risk of Eating Disorders and Social Desirability among Higher Education Students: Comparison of Nutrition Students with Other Courses. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:744. [PMID: 38610165 PMCID: PMC11011845 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12070744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The transition to college is a period of higher risk of the development of eating disorders, with nutrition/dietetics students representing a group of particular vulnerability. Hence, it is interesting to assess eating disorders, taking into consideration potential sources of bias, including social desirability. Our aims were to compare the risk of eating disorders between students of nutrition/dietetics and those attending other courses and to study potential social desirability biases. A total of 799 higher education students (81.7% females) aged 18 to 27 years old completed a questionnaire assessing the risk of eating disorders (EAT-26) and social desirability (composite version of the Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale). The proportion of students with a high risk of eating disorders was higher among females (14.5% vs. 8.2%, p = 0.044). Nutrition/dietetics students did not differ from those attending other courses regarding the risk of eating disorders. The social desirability bias when assessing the risk of eating disorders was overall low (EAT-26 total score: r = -0.080, p = 0.024). Social desirability correlated negatively with the Diet (r = -0.129, p < 0.001) and Bulimia and food preoccupation subscales (r = -0.180, p < 0.001) and positively with Oral self-control (r = 0.139, p < 0.001).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Fernandes
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 823, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal; (S.F.); (C.C.); (I.S.N.); (R.P.)
| | - Carolina Costa
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 823, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal; (S.F.); (C.C.); (I.S.N.); (R.P.)
| | - Ingrid Sayumi Nakamura
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 823, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal; (S.F.); (C.C.); (I.S.N.); (R.P.)
| | - Rui Poínhos
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 823, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal; (S.F.); (C.C.); (I.S.N.); (R.P.)
| | - Bruno M. P. M. Oliveira
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 823, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal; (S.F.); (C.C.); (I.S.N.); (R.P.)
- Laboratory of Artificial Intelligence and Decision Support, Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering—Technology and Science, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
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Martínez-Rodríguez A, Vidal-Martínez L, Martínez-Olcina M, Miralles-Amorós L, Sánchez-Sáez JA, Ramos-Campo DJ, Sánchez-Sánchez J, Martínez-Amorós N, Cheikh-Moussa K, Asencio-Mas N, Andreu-Caravaca L, Rubio-Arias JÁ. Study the Effect of an Innovative Educational Program Promoting Healthy Food Habits on Eating Disorders, Mediterranean Diet Adherence and Body Composition in University Students. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11070965. [PMID: 37046892 PMCID: PMC10094267 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11070965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The university stage is a good time to promote healthy eating strategies. The sociological and cultural changes experienced by students lead them to skip meals, increase their intake of fast food and energy-dense foods, decreasing adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD). Professionals related to food such as nutritionists and dietitians are also considered a population at risk of developing eating disorders due to the extensive knowledge they possess, which can be used for both good and bad practice. The objective was to analyze the impact of a 4-month educational program promoting the Mediterranean diet on risky eating behaviors, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and body composition in nutrition and dietetics students, studying the differences according to the group investigated (control group and educated group). The context of the research was 196 students (49 males and 147 females) from two consecutive years. The control group did not receive any type of intervention, while with the control group (educated) an educational program was carried out. Results showed that women with greater control over energy intake, carbohydrates, and sugar had a lower percentage of fat mass, while in men, the relationship was established with weight. Regarding adherence to the Mediterranean diet, at post, it is adequate in both men (8.25 ± 2.87) and women (7.90 ± 2.89), with no significant differences between the intervention groups.
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Disordered Eating Attitudes and Behaviors of Dietetics Students. TOP CLIN NUTR 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/tin.0000000000000260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Bizri M, Geagea L, Kobeissy F, Talih F. Prevalence of Eating Disorders Among Medical Students in a Lebanese Medical School: A Cross-Sectional Study. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2020; 16:1879-1887. [PMID: 32801721 PMCID: PMC7414930 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s266241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eating disorders are among the most severe psychiatric disorders. Medical students are subjected to high levels of stress and have a high risk of developing burnout and mental health problems, including eating disorders. Due to societal stigma and lack of awareness, it is plausible that disordered eating behaviors among students may go unrecognized and under-reported. The current study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and possible factors associated with eating disorders among medical students at the American University of Beirut in Lebanon (AUB). METHODS This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in 2017 at AUB. Electronic anonymous surveys were sent to all 412 medical students, with a mean age of 23, enrolled in our four-year medical school. In addition to demographic data, students were asked to complete two validated questionnaires, the SCOFF and EAT-26, to assess eating disorders risk. RESULTS Total responses were 156, out of which 124 completed the whole survey. A total of 131 participants completed the Eat-26 questionnaire and 124 participants completed the SCOFF questionnaire. Out of those, 17% on EAT-26 and 19% on SCOFF were found to be at high risk of developing eating disorders. CONCLUSION There seems to be a high level of underrecognized and under-treated disordered eating behaviors among female medical students at AUB. Raising awareness among medical students is important, as well as developing better prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Bizri
- American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Luna Geagea
- American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Firas Kobeissy
- American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Farid Talih
- American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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Agopyan A, Kenger EB, Kermen S, Ulker MT, Uzsoy MA, Yetgin MK. The relationship between orthorexia nervosa and body composition in female students of the nutrition and dietetics department. Eat Weight Disord 2019; 24:257-266. [PMID: 30159794 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-018-0565-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was carried out to determine the relationship between orthorexia nervosa (ON) and eating disorder and body composition, class level, and place of residence in university students from the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics. The participants (n = 136; 20.9 ± 2.0 years) were all female students, whose scores on the Orthorexia Nervosa Questionnaire (ORTO-11) and the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-40) indicated a prevalence of ON and eating disorder. Assessment of body composition indices (Tanita bioelectrical impedance; SC-330) of the participants showed there to be no significant difference in the EAT-40 and ORTO-11 scores in terms of body composition, class level, and place of residence. A large majority of the participants (70.6%) had high ORTO-11 scores, and a significant negative correlation (p < 0.05) was identified between the EAT-40 and ORTO-11 scores. Final results from analysis of the data showed that although abnormal orthorexic tendencies were common among the students from the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, they were nonetheless able to maintain body composition within normal values. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: V, cross-sectional descriptive study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ani Agopyan
- Department of Coaching Education, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Marmara University, Spor Bilimleri Fakültesi Göksu Mah. Cuma Yolu Cad. No:1, Beykoz, PK. 34815, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Emre Batuhan Kenger
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Bahcesehir University, Ihlamur Yıldız Cad. No:10 Bahçeşehir Üniversitesi Kuzey Kampüsü, Beşiktaş, PK. 34353, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Seda Kermen
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Kultur University, Şirinevler Yerleşkesi, Hürriyet Mah. Sümbük Sok. No:22 C Blok, Şirinevler, PK. 34188, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mutlu Tuce Ulker
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Bahcesehir University, Ihlamur Yıldız Cad. No:10 Bahçeşehir Üniversitesi Kuzey Kampüsü, Beşiktaş, PK. 34353, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Ataberk Uzsoy
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Bahcesehir University, Ihlamur Yıldız Cad. No:10 Bahçeşehir Üniversitesi Kuzey Kampüsü, Beşiktaş, PK. 34353, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Meral Kucuk Yetgin
- Department of Coaching Education, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Marmara University, Spor Bilimleri Fakültesi Göksu Mah. Cuma Yolu Cad. No:1, Beykoz, PK. 34815, Istanbul, Turkey
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Trindade AP, Appolinario JC, Mattos P, Treasure J, Nazar BP. Eating disorder symptoms in Brazilian university students: a systematic review and meta-analysis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 41:179-187. [PMID: 30328965 PMCID: PMC6781688 DOI: 10.1590/1516-4446-2018-0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To synthesize the risk of eating disorder (ED) symptoms in Brazilian university students through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Secondary goals were to analyze whether any specific majors were related to higher ED risk and whether any regions of Brazil had higher proportions of college students at risk of ED. Methods: The procedures followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, and a search was conducted in three electronic databases (MEDLINE, LILACS, and SciELO). Results: Thirty-three studies were included in the analysis, of which 14 were included in the meta-analysis. All included studies used self-report questionnaires, the most frequent of which was the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26). None of the studies used a structured interview to diagnose ED. A meta-analysis of studies with a cutoff ≥ 20 for the EAT-26 (n=5) found 14.9% (95%CI 12.8-17.2%) positive screenings, while those with a cutoff of t ≥ 21 (n=9) found 13.3% (95%CI 11.3-15.6%) positive screenings. There was a significantly higher proportion of positive screenings among nutrition majors than all other majors combined (26.5 and 20.5%, respectively). Conclusion: Nutrition students seem to be at higher risk of ED. Further research should investigate whether positive screenings translate to actual ED diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda P Trindade
- Grupo de Obesidade e Transtornos Alimentares, Instituto de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (IPUB/UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Jose C Appolinario
- Grupo de Obesidade e Transtornos Alimentares, Instituto de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (IPUB/UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Paulo Mattos
- Instituto D'Or de Pesquisa e Ensino, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Janet Treasure
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Bruno P Nazar
- Grupo de Obesidade e Transtornos Alimentares, Instituto de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (IPUB/UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.,Instituto D'Or de Pesquisa e Ensino, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Roustaee R, Houshiarrad A, Tajik E, Hajifaraji M. Assessment of Dietary Intakes and Food habits in Female Adolescents with Eating Disorders. NUTRITION AND FOOD SCIENCES RESEARCH 2018. [DOI: 10.29252/nfsr.5.4.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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Rocks T, Pelly F, Slater G, Martin LA. Prevalence of Exercise Addiction Symptomology and Disordered Eating in Australian Students Studying Nutrition and Dietetics. J Acad Nutr Diet 2017; 117:1628-1636. [PMID: 28551315 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2017.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research has reported the existence of disordered eating in students studying nutrition and dietetics. However, the occurrence of exercise addiction, previously linked to disordered eating, is poorly understood in this group. OBJECTIVE The main objective of this study was to explore the prevalence of self-reported symptoms of exercise addiction and the association with disordered eating in a sample of students studying nutrition and dietetics. A secondary objective was to compare the prevalence of exercise addiction to students enrolled in another health-related degree. DESIGN We conducted a cross-sectional study in 165 undergraduate students. PARTICIPANTS/SETTING Participants were students of both sexes enrolled in nutrition and dietetics and occupational therapy degree programs at an Australian university in August 2013. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Participants completed four validated questionnaires for assessment of exercise- and eating-related attitudes and behaviors measuring scores for exercise addiction, weekly volume of physical activity (PA), eating disorder symptoms, and cognitive restraint. Stretch stature and body mass were measured and body composition was assessed using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED Independent t test, Mann-Whitney U test, and χ2 test were completed to compare groups of students based on sex, degree, or eating attitudes. Spearman's correlation was performed to explore associations between continuous variables (exercise addiction scores, PA volume, and scores for eating attitudes and cognitive restraint). RESULTS Approximately 23% of nutrition and dietetics students were found to be at risk of exercise addiction (20% females and 35% males; P=0.205), while the majority demonstrated some symptoms of exercise addiction. A similar proportion of at risk individuals was found in the female occupational therapy group (19%; P=1.000). In females (nutrition and dietetics and occupational therapy combined), the exercise addiction scores were associated with three other outcome measures: PA volume (rs=0.41; P<0.001), eating attitudes scores (rs=0.24; P=0.008), and cognitive restraint (rs=0.32; P<0.001). Comparative analysis indicated that female students with high cognitive restraint had greater exercise addiction scores than those with low cognitive restraint (20.3 [4.8] compared to 17.8 [4.2]; P=0.003). CONCLUSIONS Results suggest high prevalence of exercise addiction in this sample of undergraduate health-related degree students and its link to amount of PA and disordered eating in females. Future research should include larger samples of both sexes to build the existing understanding on these maladaptive behaviors.
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Disordered Eating Behaviors and Food Addiction among Nutrition Major College Students. Nutrients 2016; 8:nu8110673. [PMID: 27792162 PMCID: PMC5133061 DOI: 10.3390/nu8110673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2016] [Revised: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence of whether nutrition students are free from food-related issues or at higher risk for eating disorders is inconsistent. This study aimed to assess disordered eating behaviors and food addiction among nutrition and non-nutrition major college students. Students (n = 967, ages 18–25, female 72.7%, white 74.8%) enrolled at a public university completed online demographic characteristics surveys and validated questionnaires measuring specific disordered eating behaviors. Academic major category differences were compared. Additionally, high risk participants were assessed by weight status and academic year. Overall, 10% of respondents were a high level of concern for developing eating disorders. About 10.3% of respondents met criteria for food addiction. In addition, 4.5% of respondents had co-occurrence of eating disorder risk and food addiction risk out of total respondents. There were no significant differences in level of concern for developing an eating disorder, eating subscales, or food addiction among academic majors. The percentage of high risk participants was lower in the underweight/normal weight group than in the overweight/obese group in health-related non-nutrition major students but not in nutrition students. Early screening, increasing awareness, and promoting healthy eating habits could be potential strategies to help treat and prevent the development of disorders or associated health conditions in nutrition as well as non-nutrition students.
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Şanlier N, Türközü D, Toka O. Body Image, Food Addiction, Depression, and Body Mass Index in University Students. Ecol Food Nutr 2016; 55:491-507. [DOI: 10.1080/03670244.2016.1219951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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12
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Rocks T, Pelly F, Slater G, Martin LA. Eating attitudes and behaviours of students enrolled in undergraduate nutrition and dietetics degrees. Nutr Diet 2016; 74:381-387. [PMID: 28901702 DOI: 10.1111/1747-0080.12298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Revised: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM The prevalence of disordered eating has been frequently reported in university students; however, the prevalence amongst Australian undergraduate students studying degrees with a focus on nutrition is uncertain. The aims of this study were to: (i) assess eating attitudes and behaviours of students enrolled in nutrition and dietetics, (ii) compare those to students enrolled in another health degree of occupational therapy (OT) and (iii) explore possible relationships between eating attitudes and behaviours and other characteristics of both cohorts. METHODS This cross-sectional observational study investigated self-reported anthropometric characteristics, eating attitudes and behaviours and self-esteem using a series of questionnaires. RESULTS Participants included 137 students (119 females, 18 males) with a mean age of 27.1 ± 8.7 years. Fourteen percent of nutrition and dietetics and 11% of OT students had disordered eating attitudes scores that were symptomatic of an eating disorder. Mean eating attitude scores did not differ between the degrees of study. Students in nutrition and dietetics showed significantly higher levels of cognitive restraint and less emotional eating than OT students. Enrolment in the first year of study was the strongest predictor of symptomatic eating attitudes. CONCLUSIONS These findings support previously expressed concern about presence of disordered eating in nutrition and dietetics undergraduates. Collaboratively developed support mechanisms for preventing and managing disordered relationships with food would be of benefit to students enrolled in nutrition degrees to ensure ongoing professional integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetyana Rocks
- School of Health and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Queensland, Australia
| | - Fiona Pelly
- School of Health and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Queensland, Australia
| | - Gary Slater
- School of Health and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lisa A Martin
- School of Health and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Queensland, Australia
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Harris N, Gee D, D’Acquisto D, Ogan D, Pritchett K. Eating disorder risk, exercise dependence, and body weight dissatisfaction among female nutrition and exercise science university majors. J Behav Addict 2015; 4:206-9. [PMID: 26551912 PMCID: PMC4627683 DOI: 10.1556/2006.4.2015.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Revised: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 07/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Past research has examined eating disorder risk among college students majoring in Nutrition and has suggested an increased risk, while other studies contradict these results. Exercise Science majors, however, have yet to be fully examined regarding their risk for eating disorders and exercise dependence. Based on pressures to fit the image associated with careers related to these two disciplines, research is warranted to examine the potential risk for both eating disorder and exercise dependence. The purpose of this study is to compare eating disorder risk, exercise dependence, and body weight dissatisfaction (BWD) between Nutrition and Exercise Science majors, compared to students outside of these career pathways. METHODS Participants (n = 89) were divided into three groups based on major; Nutrition majors (NUTR; n = 31), Exercise Science majors (EXSC; n = 30), and other majors (CON; n = 28). Participants were given the EAT-26 questionnaire and the Exercise Dependence Scale. BWD was calculated as the discrepancy between actual BMI and ideal BMI. RESULTS The majority of participants expressed a desire to weigh less (83%) and EXSC had significantly (p = .03) greater BWD than NUTR. However, there were no significant differences in eating disorder risk or exercise dependence among majors. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS This study suggested there was no significant difference in eating disorder risk or exercise dependence between the three groups (NUTR, EXSC, and CON).
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Harris
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Health Sciences, Central Washington University, Ellensburg, WA, USA
| | - David Gee
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Health Sciences, Central Washington University, Ellensburg, WA, USA
| | - Debra D’Acquisto
- Department of PE & Public Health, Central Washington University, Ellensburg, WA, USA
| | - Dana Ogan
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Health Sciences, Central Washington University, Ellensburg, WA, USA
| | - Kelly Pritchett
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Health Sciences, Central Washington University, Ellensburg, WA, USA
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Mahn HM, Lordly D. A Review of Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating amongst Nutrition Students and Dietetic Professionals. CAN J DIET PRACT RES 2015; 76:38-43. [DOI: 10.3148/cjdpr-2014-031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Heather Mciver Mahn
- Department of Applied Human Nutrition, Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS
| | - Daphne Lordly
- Department of Applied Human Nutrition, Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS
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Nergiz-Unal R, Bilgiç P, Yabancı N. High tendency to the substantial concern on body shape and eating disorders risk of the students majoring Nutrition or Sport Sciences. Nutr Res Pract 2014; 8:713-8. [PMID: 25489412 PMCID: PMC4252532 DOI: 10.4162/nrp.2014.8.6.713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Revised: 08/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Studies have indicated that university students majoring in nutrition and dietetics or sport sciences may have more obsessions associated with eating attitudes and body shape perception compared to other disciplines i.e. social sciences. Therefore, this study aimed to assess and compare the risk of eating disorders and body shape perception. MATERIALS/METHODS Data was collected from 773 undergraduate students at the Departments of Nutrition and Dietetics (NDD) (n = 254), Physical Education and Sports (PESD) (n = 263), and Social Sciences (SOC) (n = 256).A socio-demographic and personal information questionnaire, Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-40), Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ-34), Perceived Figure Rating Scale (FRS) were applied; and body weights and heights were measured. RESULTS Mean EAT-40 scores showed that, both male and female students of PESD had the highest scores (17.4 ± 11.6) compared with NDD (14.3 ± 8.3) and SOC (13.0 ± 6.2) (P < 0.05). According to EAT-40 classification, high risk in abnormal eating behavior was more in PESD (10.7%) compared to NDD (2.9%) and SOC (0.4%) students (P < 0.05). Students of PESD, who skipped meal, had higher tendency to the risk of eating disorders (P < 0.05). In parallel, body shape perception was found to be marked with higher scores in NDD (72.0 ± 28.7) and PESD (71.5 ± 32.8) compared with SOC (64.2 ± 27.5) students (P < 0.05). Considering BSQ-34 classification, high concern (moderate and marked) for body shape were more in PESD (7.4 %) compared to NDD (5.2%) and SOC (1.9%) students (P < 0.05). The body size judgement via obtained by the FRS scale were generally correlated with BMI. The Body Mass Index levels were in normal range (Mean BMI: 21.9 ± 2.8 kg/m(2)) and generally consistent with FRS data. CONCLUSIONS Tendency to the abnormal eating behavior and substantial body shape perception were higher in PESD students who have more concern on body shape and were not well-educated about nutrition. In conclusion, substantial concern on physical appearance might affect eating behavior disorders in PESD students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reyhan Nergiz-Unal
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hacettepe University, 06100 Sıhhiye, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Pelin Bilgiç
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hacettepe University, 06100 Sıhhiye, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nurcan Yabancı
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
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Eating behaviour among undergraduate students. Comparing nutrition students with other courses. Appetite 2014; 84:28-33. [PMID: 25240638 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2014.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2014] [Revised: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 09/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Our main aim was to compare eating behaviour between Portuguese undergraduate nutrition students and students attending other courses. Several eating behaviour dimensions were compared between 154 nutrition students and 263 students from other areas. Emotional and external eating were assessed by the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire, dietary restraint was measured using the flexible and rigid control of eating behaviour subscales, binge eating was measured using the Binge Eating Scale, and eating self-efficacy using the General Eating Self-Efficacy Scale. Higher levels of flexible and rigid control were found in nutrition students from both sexes when compared to students from other courses. Female nutrition students also presented higher binge eating levels than their colleagues from other courses. To our knowledge no other work has previously assessed all eating behaviour dimensions considered in the current study among nutrition students. Besides the results by themselves, the data obtained from this study provide several clues to further studies to be developed regarding the still rarely approached issue of eating behaviour among nutrition students.
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Fragkos KC, Frangos CC. Assessing eating disorder risk: the pivotal role of achievement anxiety, depression and female gender in non-clinical samples. Nutrients 2013; 5:811-28. [PMID: 23482057 PMCID: PMC3705321 DOI: 10.3390/nu5030811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Revised: 01/18/2013] [Accepted: 02/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to assess factors predicting eating disorder risk in a sample of undergraduate students. A structured questionnaire was employed on a random sample (n = 1865) consisting of the following sections: demographics, SCOFF (Sick, Control, One stone, Fat, Food) questionnaire for screening eating disorders and the Achievement Anxiety Test and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale. The students at risk for eating disorders (SCOFF score ≥2) were 39.7%. Eating disorder risk was more frequent in females, students with divorced parents, students who lived alone, students who were seeking a romantic relationship or were married, students who were at a post-secondary vocational institute/college (private-public) educational level and who were more likely to have marks under merit level. Also, the mean scores for the psychological factors of depression, stress and anxiety were higher in students with eating disorder risk. A logistic regression model was produced depicting that depression, stress, female gender, being married and searching for a romantic relationship were risk factors of having an eating disorder risk. The suggested psychological model examined with structural equation modelling signified the role of academic anxiety as an immediate precursor of general anxiety. Hence, college populations in Greece need organized infrastructures of nutrition health services and campaigns to assist in reducing the risk of eating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos C. Fragkos
- Centre for Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Division of Medicine, University College London, Rockefeller Building, 21 University Street, London, WC1E 6DE, UK
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +44-7960-340489; Fax: +44-2032-876102
| | - Christos C. Frangos
- Department of Business Administration, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, Agiou Spyridonos Street, Egaleo 12210, Athens, Greece; E-Mail:
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Drummond D, Hare MS. Dietitians and eating disorders: an international issue. CAN J DIET PRACT RES 2012; 73:86-90. [PMID: 22668844 DOI: 10.3148/73.2.2012.86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of eating disorders is higher in university nutrition faculties than in other faculties. We examined beliefs about and approaches to eating disorders in nutrition education faculties around the world. We developed a questionnaire specifically for this project and distributed 664 copies electronically, using contact information obtained in collaboration with Dietitians of Canada and the International Confederation of Dietetic Associations. Using the 101 questionnaires returned from 14 countries, we found that 77% of respondents felt eating disorders are a concern among nutrition students; however, only 15% of programs had policies/procedures to help address these disorders. Forty-eight percent of respondents thought screening for eating disorders would be a good idea; however, 78% of them believed screening would involve ethical issues. In conclusion, eating disorders are a concern in nutrition faculties around the world, and while most feel something should be done, ethical dilemmas contribute to confusion over the best approach. More work is needed in this area.
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Disordered Eating Attitudes in Relation to Anxiety Levels, Self-esteem and Body Image in Female Basketball Players. J Exerc Sci Fit 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/s1728-869x(12)60006-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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