The interplay between premenstrual syndrome, eating disorder risk, and adiposity indicators: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can negatively affect the quality of life of women of childbearing age, and symptom severity may increase in relation to visceral adiposity. The visceral adiposity index (VAI) is a novel indicator of adipose tissue dysfunction and may be useful in assessing risks associated with PMS and obesity. This study aimed to determine the relationships between PMS,VAI, and eating attitudes in women. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted with 252 female volunteers aged 18-40 years who applied to a Ministry of Health Healthy Nutrition and Active Life Unit in Istanbul,T & uuml;rkiye. Data were collected using a sociodemographic information form, the Premenstrual Syndrome Scale (PMSS), the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26), and a retrospective 24-hour dietary recall. Anthropometric measurements (weight, height, waist circumference) were taken, body composition was determined via bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and VAI was calculated. Mann-Whitney U, Chi-square, and Logistic Regression tests were used for statistical analyses. Results PMS was detected in 57.9% of participants. The PMS group showed a significantly higher body fat percentage (38.1% vs. 37.1%, p = 0.039) compared to non-PMS group. Although VAI levels did not differ significantly between the groups, regression analysis revealed that high BMI, rather than PMS status, was the primary independent risk factor for eating disorders. Conclusion These findings specifically suggest that body fat percentage plays a more critical role than VAI in PMS symptomatology. While no significant differences in energy or nutrient intake were identified between groups in this study, the results highlight a significant interaction between PMS symptom severity and the risk of eating disorders.This suggests that weight management strategies encompassing both nutritional interventions and body composition targets should be prioritized for individuals with PMS.