Satisfaction with body image and use of supplements by gym goers

Abstract

AIMS: To assess the level of satisfaction with body image in gym goers and its relation to the consumption of supplements. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with gym goers (bodybuilders), with at least six months of practice, of both sexes and aged between 20 and 40 years. The instruments used were: Silhouette Matching Task for the assessment of body image perception and a semi-structured questionnaire to identify the consumption of dietary supplements. RESULTS: The study included 45 volunteers, 28 men and 17 women, with a mean age of 27.93±6.27 years. Thirty-two participants (71.1%) showed dissatisfaction with body image, being 19 (67.9%) among men and 13 (76.5%) among women. It was observed that those who consumed supplements had higher satisfaction with their body image than those who did not use these products. Satisfaction with body image was similar in individuals with different times of practicing bodybuilding. CONCLUSIONS: Even inserted in an environment based in aesthetic achievement and quality of life, most gym goers are dissatisfied with their body image. Those who use dietary supplements have less difference between perceived current and desired image, with higher satisfaction with their body image.