A Study on Food Behaviors and Nutrient Intakes according to Body Mass Index and Body Image Recognition in Female University Students from Incheon

인천 지역 여대생의 체질량 지수와 체형 인식에 따른 식행동 및 영양소 섭취 상태 분석

The purpose of this research was to study food behaviors and nutrient intakes according to body mass index(BMI) and body image recognition in 211 female university students in Incheon. The majority of the surveyed subjects were in the normal range for BMI. Most of these female university students preferred a thin body type and were not satisfied with their body shapes. Most also controlled their body weight for appearance by exercising and limiting food intake. The obese group often ate processed foods(p<0.01) and ate out(p<0.05). The underweight group and normal-weight group took vitamins and supplements more frequently(p<0.001). Those students who recognized their body image as a 'fat shape' had good appetites(p<0.05) and those who recognized themselves as 'normal shape' considered food formulations ate every meal (p<0.05) and consumed vitamins and other supplements frequently(p<0.01). The mean calorie intake of all students was about 80% of the recommend amount, so there was a risk of lack of various nutrients. The 'fat' students by body image recognition had lower calorie intakes in order to reduce body weight. In all the groups, there was a lack of vitamins $B_1$ and $B_2$, as well as the minerals Ca and Fe. Therefore, education on correct body image recognition and training on proper weight control are deemed necessary. In addition, education and counseling on nutrition that are tailored to individual status are needed.