Associations between complementary medicine, satisfaction with body weight and shape, and the use of methods to lose or control weight: Results of a national survey of 8009 Australian women

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine whether the use of complementary medicine (CM) is associated with body satisfaction and weight management methods in Australian women.

Methods: Women aged 34-39 years from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health were surveyed regarding satisfaction with their body weight and shape, and the use of weight management methods. Associations with CM use were analysed using logistic regression modelling.

Results: Women using CM less likely wanted to lose weight; and were more likely to cut down on fats and/or sugars, use low glycaemic diets, diet books and 'other' methods (OR: 1.33-2.83) compared to CM non-users. Women using herbal medicine products 'sometimes' were more likely to use meal replacements/slimming products (OR: 1.50-1.67) compared to non-users.

Discussion: Australian women using CM are more likely to be satisfied with their body weight and shape, and to use a range of weight management approaches compared to CM non-users.

Keywords: Complementary medicine; Naturopathy; Obesity; Overweight; Weight loss.