Analysis of The Relationship Between The Level of Understanding of A Healthy Diet and The Perception of Body Image in Female Students

This study aims to analyze the relationship between the level of understanding of a healthy diet and the perception of body image among female university students. Utilizing a quantitative descriptive approach, the research involved 90 female students selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and the Body-Self Relations Questionnaire (MBSRQ) to measure dietary knowledge and body image perception, respectively. Data analysis was conducted using the Spearman’s rho correlation test due to non-normal distribution in one variable. The results revealed a very strong and significant positive correlation (r = 0.968, p 0.001) between the level of dietary knowledge and positive body image perception. These findings indicate that a higher understanding of healthy dietary practices is associated with more positive and realistic body image perceptions among female students. The study emphasizes the critical role of nutritional education in fostering healthy lifestyle habits and improving psychological well-being, suggesting the need for integrated health and nutrition education programs within higher education institutions to support students' holistic development.