Exploring the quality and pattern of diet in relation to eating disorder among Bengalee adolescent girls.

backgroundThe preoccupation with body image and subsequent abnormal eating patterns are defined as eating disorders (ED). The condition often manifests during adolescence and negatively affects health and nutritional status. In modern days, the dietary patterns of individuals are also changing, leading to maladaptive diet choices and cultivating body consciousness.

methodThis cross-sectional study was conducted among 396 Bengalee schoolgirls aged 13–19 years of North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, selected using a simple random sampling procedure. The study examined the mean differences in the amount of nutrients consumed, mean dietary diversity score (MDDS), and frequency of fast-food (FF) consumption between the ED and control groups. The association of dietary choice with ED was also observed. Diet quality was measured by nutrient adequacy ratio (NAR) and MDDS.

resultResults revealed a significantly greater intake of energy, dietary fiber, and iron by ED participants, along with a difference in FF consumption frequency. However, there was no significant difference in diet quality as measured by MDDS and NAR between the ED and control groups. Both groups met the medium dietary diversity but not the adequate nutrient requirements. Very few ED participants reported ‘frequent-to-daily’ consumption of fruits, milk, green-leafy vegetables, and vitamin A-rich foods and eggs. Intake of meat-fish and pulses at a ‘very often-to-frequent’ level by them was associated with increased fiber and iron intake. ED showed a significant association with both MDDS and the frequency of FF consumption.

conclusionIt is concluded that while individuals with ED reported higher consumption of energy, fibre, and iron-rich foods, their overall diet quality, as measured by NAR, Mean adequacy ratio (MAR, and MDDS, did not significantly differ from that of the control group. The findings emphasized the preference for NAR as a more suitable indicator for evaluating diet quality compared to MDDS, as it measures age-specific nutrient intake. Limited intake of nutrient-rich foods and frequent intake of FF may increase the likelihood of ED. The findings emphasize the importance of regular monitoring and dietary interventions aimed at improving food choices among adolescents to prevent poor eating habits and reduce the risk of long-term health and lifestyle complications.