Patterns of Eating and Physical Activity Attitudes and Behaviors in Relation to Body Mass Index

Abstract

The aim of the study was to identify and characterize the patterns of the psychological and behavioral characteristics, in relation to body mass index. In addition, the study examined the associations between the patterns and demographic characteristics, exercise, eating habits, and health-related psychological variables. Participants were 361 Greek adults, randomly selected and completed self-reported questionnaires. The surveys examined demographic characteristics, health-related psychological variables (attitudes and intentions toward exercise and healthy eating, perceived behavioral control, health locus of control, general health, self-control, and body image) and the behaviors of exercise and healthy eating. Cluster analysis identified two distinct profiles: the first segment was related to healthier exercise and eating behaviors, and more positive results in psychological variables. Interestingly, individuals in healthy segment correspond to a normal Body Mass Index (BMI). The second segment was related to more unhealthy behaviors, as like lower levels of exercise healthy eating and negative psychological variables. As expected, second segments’ individuals had a mean overweight BMI. Furthermore, unhealthy segment profiles were related to higher psychological distress and lower self-control. Cluster analysis provides us an inspiring conclusion concerning the analysis of the combination of several variables. Healthy and unhealthy patterns were identified into two categories, using behaviors and psychological beliefs. The comparison between demographic characteristics and final clusters showed that age, education, type of sport (team or individual) and the total years of exercise appeared significant differences. All the above should be considered for the establishment of a healthy lifestyle to increase intervention effectiveness of weight-loss management.