Pengaruh Persepsi Body Image terhadap Pola Makan dan Indeks Massa Tubuh Mahasiswa Patiseri: Studi pada Politeknik Pariwisata Medan

Background: A balanced diet is essential for maintaining health and nutritional status, commonly assessed using Body Mass Index (BMI). Dietary habits are influenced not only by physiological needs but also by psychological factors such as Body Image perception. Unrealistic perceptions of one’s body can lead to unhealthy eating behaviors and negatively impact nutritional status. Patisserie students, who are frequently exposed to high-calorie foods, may be particularly vulnerable to such challenges. Objective:  This study aims to examine the influence of Body Image perception on dietary patterns and BMI among patisserie students at the Medan Tourism Polytechnic. Methods: This study is an observational analytical study with a cross-sectional approach to 60 students of Medan Tourism Polytechnic. Body Image and eating pattern data were collected using a questionnaire, while BMI was obtained by measuring the weight and height of the subjects. Result: The data obtained were analyzed using the Chi-square Test. Based on the results of the analysis, a relationship was found between Body Image and eating patterns with a value of p = 0.006 (P < 0.05). However, there was no relationship between Body Image and BMI with a value of p = 0.391 (P> 0.05). Consclusion: There is a relationship between Body Image and eating patterns but there is no relationship between Body Image and BMI.