Trends in Eating Habits and Body Weight Status, Perception Patterns and Management Practices among First-Year Students of Kaunas (Lithuania) Universities, 2000–2017

Abstract

Students’ transition from high school to university is accompanied by lifestyle changes. This study aimed to assess trends in students’ body weight status, perception, management practices and eating habits from 2000 to 2017. Three cross-sectional surveys were carried out among the first-year students of five Kaunas (Lithuania) universities in 2000, 2010 and 2017. The self-administered questionnaires were filled in during lectures. Altogether, 3275 students aged 20.0 (1.5) years participated in the survey. The prevalence of self-reported overweight increased among male students from 11.3% in 2000 to 24.3% in 2017 and female students from 5.2 to 9.6%. The intake frequency of fruits, vegetables and cereals increased, and red meat decreased. At a normal BMI, more female than male students perceived themselves as being ‘too fat’ (19.4% and 8.8% in 2017), while more male than female students perceived themselves as being ‘too thin’ (37.2% and 4.5% in 2017). More females than males were dissatisfied with their weight, worried about gaining weight and tried to lose weight. Weight-management practices were associated with body weight, self-perception, dissatisfaction, worries about weight gain and eating behaviours. Our study highlights the need for interventions to increase the accuracy of weight perception and to promote the appropriate weight-management methods, addressing gender differences.

Association between body weight perception and intuitive eating among undergraduate students in China: the mediating role of body image

“…To our knowledge, this investigation marks the first attempt to explore the link between body weight perception and intuitive eating. Among students who viewed themselves as overweight or obese, there was a heightened inclination towards pursuing weight loss compared to those who regarded themselves as just the right weight, including instances of misperception regarding body weight ( 32 ). Those perceiving themselves as overweight tended to take various actions to achieve the desired weight loss.…”

Sociodemographic Variables and Body Mass Index Associated with the Risk of Eating Disorders in Spanish University Students

“…The first year is an especially critical period for the onset of pathological or disordered eating patterns. The increase in independence and responsibilities, as well as questions over personal identity all contributed in part to the pathological eating patterns [ 44 , 45 ].…”

Changes in Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Body Weight among Lithuanian Students during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…First-year students are a dynamic group that experiences many challenges, changes, and opportunities during their transition to higher education. Previous studies have identified unhealthy shifts in their dietary habits and physical activity, linking the changes with weight gain [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. In Lithuania, the prevalence of overweight and obesity increased among first-year male students (from 11.3% in 2000 to 24.3% in 2017) and female students (from 5.2 to 9.6%) [ 3 ].…”

“…Previous studies have identified unhealthy shifts in their dietary habits and physical activity, linking the changes with weight gain [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. In Lithuania, the prevalence of overweight and obesity increased among first-year male students (from 11.3% in 2000 to 24.3% in 2017) and female students (from 5.2 to 9.6%) [ 3 ]. The COVID-19 pandemic could potentially have exacerbated these shifts.…”