A cross-sectional analysis examining the association between dieting behaviours and alcohol use among secondary school students in the COMPASS study

Background: Unhealthy weight-control methods and problematic alcohol use appear linked, with individuals engaging in both behaviours at greater risk of adverse consequences. Most studies have been conducted among females and young adults, yet both dieting and binge drinking emerge at earlier stages of development. Moreover, gender differences are likely due to contrasting body ideals. This study investigated the co-occurrence of dieting and alcohol use among youth, focusing on varying weight goals in males and females, and meal skipping, as a form of food restriction.

Methods: Cross-sectional analyses were conducted in sample of 44 861 Grade 9-12 students from Year 2 (2013-14) of the COMPASS study.

Results and conclusions: The majority of females were trying to lose weight, while males tended to report efforts to gain and these two groups demonstrated the highest odds of alcohol use and binge drinking. Breakfast and lunch skipping predicted binge drinking and alcohol use in females, but only the former was related to drinking behaviour in males. Breakfast skipping rarely occurred for weight loss purposes, although more females reported this reason for missing meals than males. Results support hypothesized gender variations in weight goals and meal skipping, and differing associations with drinking behaviour.