Risky eating behaviors, body perception and body mass index in first grade high school students in Ameca, Jalisco

Abstract

Risky Eating Behaviors (REB) are manifestations similar to eating disorders; however, they occur with lower frequency and intensity. They typically develop during adolescence and are accompanied by factors such as altered body perception and body mass index. The objective of this research was to describe the relationship between risky eating behaviors, body perception and body mass index (BMI) in first-grade high school students from Ameca, Jalisco. A cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational study was conducted. Participants were asked to answer the Brief Questionnaire on Risky Eating Behaviors, as well as a questionnaire with numbered silhouettes in which the BMI is valued from zero to nine in a range from 17 to 33. A total of 123 students between 12 and 14 years old were evaluated, with an average age of 13 years. The BMI was calculated using weight and height. Seven percent of adolescents were at risk for CAR, however, within the 93% who were not at risk, some REBs were more frequently present: concern about gaining weight and exercise. Regarding BMI, 48% of students were of normal weight, 30% underweight, 20% overweight and only 2% were obese. Regarding body perception, 67% identify themselves with a normal weight and 33% as overweight. Although REBs were present in the students, they did not have a direct relationship with BMI; however, a significant relationship was found between BMI and body perception of the students.