Relationship between food habits with body mass index (BMI) and fat distribution (WHR) in high school girls in Bojnurd

Obesity is the most important nutrition - health problem of adolescents in developed countries, and the role of dietary habits and associated factors in nutritional disease is undeniable. Furthermore, weight gain especially in adolescence is associated with negative attitudes to own their. This study examined the relationship between food habits with body mass index and fat distribution in high school girls in Bojnurd.

This cross -sectional study was conducted on 250 high school girls in 2012. Multi-stage sampling was carried out and data sheet and eating habits questionnaire was used as a means of collecting data. BMI (body mass index) and fat mass index were also measured by standard methods. Statistical analysis was carried out using the SPSS package (version 16).

The results showed that the prevalence of obesity and overweight were 3.2 and 12%, respectively. 43 obese individuals (17.1%) had abdominal obesity. A significant positive correlation was found between BMI and fat mass index (p<0.0001). Average intake of fat and energy in overweight and obese were significantly higher than underweight and normal weight ones (p<0.05). The relation between dietary habits and levels of parental education and income were significant (p<0.05)

High intake of fat and energy was associated with BMI and fat mass index in high school girls. Accordingly, the inclusion of nutrition education programs and presenting the correct pattern of food consumption can be strategies for health promotion.