Male body dissatisfaction and eating behavior: a cross-sectional study
Abstract
Introduction: Inadequate eating behavior and body dissatisfaction are common themes among studies that compare males and females. However, few of these are exclusively aimed at males and their characteristics. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of body dissatisfaction and inadequate eating behavior among men in Serra Gaúcha and their associations. Materials and Methods: An online survey was conducted using the Google Forms platform, with a self-administered questionnaire targeted at men over 18 years old living in Serra Gaúcha. Sociodemographic data were collected, in addition to reported weight and height. Body image dissatisfaction was assessed using the Stunkard silhouette scale. Eating behavior was assessed using the EAT-26 tool. Results: A total of 107 men aged 35.42 ± 13.81 years were included, most of whom had completed or incomplete higher education, were single and practiced physical activity, and had a body mass index of 26.79 ± 4.59 kg/m2. There was 87.8% of body dissatisfaction and 9.3% of inadequate eating behavior. Among men dissatisfied with their body image, there was a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity (p=0.028). Conclusion: There was a high rate of body dissatisfaction among men, associated with excess weight.
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