Weight perception, weight change intentions, and alcohol use among young adults

Obesity and binge drinking are important health issues for young adults in the United States. Several studies have investigated the relationship between these constructs with mixed results. One possible explanation to disentangle this relationship suggests that how people feel about their weight, regardless of their actual weight, may explain some variation in alcohol use. This study (n = 4497) investigated the relationship between two types of body weight concerns – weight perception and weight change intentions – and binge drinking. Controlling for measured body weight, we considered whether body weight concerns increase risk for binge drinking. Findings suggest that women who reported trying to lose weight had an increased risk of binge drinking. Conversely, men who perceived themselves overweight were significantly less likely to participate in binge drinking. We conclude with a discussion of the finding's implications.

Research highlights
► In this study, we consider body weight concerns and binge drinking.
► We stratified our analyses by gender and controlled for body mass index.
► For men, perceived overweight was inversely related to binge drinking.
► Women reporting trying to lose weight were more likely to binge drink.
► We conclude by discussing weight stigma and implications for obesity prevention.