2011 Volume 7 Pages 35-43
For the purpose of helping university students achieve a healthy lifestyle, we examined the relationship between body image and subjective symptoms of fatigue, lifestyle, and dietary habits. Self completed questionnaires were distributed to 3,267 male university students in the 1st to 4th years of university. A total of 2,878 valid responses were obtained (the valid response rate was 88.1%). Subjects of the analysis for this study were 1,664 students within normal limits according to Body Mass Index who indicated “I’m fat.” (Overestimating Group) and “I’m normal.” (Matched Group) when questioned about their body image. The Overestimating Group showed a greater number of subjective symptoms of fatigue in the categories of “Feeling of physical deterioration,” “Difficulty concentrating,” and “Lethargy.” The Overestimating Group had a lower number of respondents selecting “Exercise three or more times every week,” and “Have never dieted,” “Live a regulated life,” “Always careful about diet,” compared with the Matched Group. On the other hand, a higher number of respondents in the Overestimating Group selected “Want to improve dietary habits,” which suggests the need to develop dietary education and establish an environment conducive to the improvement of dietary habits. It is also necessary to provide health education that allows individuals to develop a proper body image.
