We studied the relationship between dieting and bone density among female
college students and the current state thereof. Female college students are
generally thin, with the time to giving birth and raising the next generation
approaching. We expect the results of this study will be useful in improving
health guidance. The subjects consisted of 124 female college students. Their
average age was 21.4. The ultrasonic propagation velocity of the heel bone
was measured as the bone density value. Body height, weight, and BMI (Body
mass index) were also measured. Further, a multiple choice and short answer
survey was conducted regarding their desire to be thin and dieting. Classifying
the subjects by BMI, 16 students were underweight (13%), 102 students
were of normal weight (84%), and 4 students were overweight (3%). 95% of
those in the normal weight group had a desire to be thin, while 44% of the
underweight group had a desire to be thin. Moreover, 31% of those in the
normal weight group were currently on a diet, while 21% of the underweight
group was also on a diet. The distribution of bone density (%YAM value:
Young Adult Mean) was as follows: 61 students (49%) were in the high density
group (≥100); 58 students (47%) were in the middle density group (≥80 -
<100); and 5 students (4%) were in the low density group (<80). The more
the bone density decreased, the greater the proportion of students with dieting
experience. Among students with no dieting experience, the %YAM value
was high when the BMI value was high. All of the students in the low density
group had a desire to be thin, even though their bone density was low. Students
who do not need to be thin had a desire to be thin and were considering
continuing dieting going forward. Moreover, some students fell into
the %YAM low density group, which is worrisome for the future. It is believed necessary to reinforce health guidance regarding dieting and bone
density in school education. In particular, it is necessary to improve guidance
since we observed a lack of knowledge regarding osteoporosis prevention.
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