Body shape perception in men and women without obesity during caloric restriction: a secondary analysis from the CALERIE study

Objective To examine body shape perception in 218 adults without obesity or history of eating disorders during caloric restriction (CR). Methods Comprehensive Assessment of Long-term Effects of Reducing Intake of Energy (CALERIE) is a 2-year, randomized clinical trial using a 2:1 assignment (CR, 25% reduction in calories; Control, typical diet). For this secondary analysis, we examined perceived body shape using the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ). Analyses of BSQ scores are reported by group, over time, by sex, and by BMI. Data for body fat percentage, symptoms of depression, food cravings, maximal oxygen consumption, and stress were analyzed for their association with BSQ scores. Results Compared to control, CR reduced BSQ scores. Women tended to have greater concern with body shape than men across all measurement times. There was no difference in change in BSQ scores at 12 or 24 months between those with a BMI < 25 kg/m 2 or ≥ 25 kg/m 2 . Change in body fat percentage was most correlated with change in BSQ score from 0 to 12 ( r = 0.39) and 0–24 months ( r = 0.38). For change in BSQ score, Akaike/ Bayesian information criterion (AIC/BIC) found that the model of best fit included the following three change predictors: change in body fat percentage, depression symptoms, and food cravings. For 0–12 months, AIC/BIC = 1482.0/1505.6 and for 0–24 months AIC/BIC = 1364.8/1386.5. Conclusions CR is associated with reduced concern for body shape in men and women without obesity and with no history of eating disorders. Body shape perception among this sample was complex and influenced by multiple factors. Level of evidence Level I, randomized controlled trial.