Abstract
Background/Objectives: Excess body weight is a global public health problem. This study aimed to identify differences in food-related behaviors and physical activity among healthy weight, overweight, and obese adult individuals in Poland. Particular attention was paid to health inequalities among analyzed groups. Methods: This was a secondary data analysis of a dataset generated by the public institution in Poland, within a representative cross-sectional study among working adults (aged 18-64 years) in December 2024. A total of seven different questions on lifestyle-related behaviors were analyzed. Results: A total of 4714 adults were included in the analysis, of which 47.0% had a healthy weight (BMI 18.5-24.9), 34.2% were overweight (BMI 25-29.9), and 18.9% were obese (BMI 30-39.9). People aged 45-64 had almost 6 times higher odds of belonging to the overweight group compared to people aged 18-24 (OR = 5.7; 95% CI: 4.34-7.49). Men were more likely to be overweight (OR = 1.69; 95% CI: 1.47-1.95), as were rural residents (OR = 1.21; 95% CI: 1.05-1.39). The overweight group was more likely to monitor the number of steps taken during the day (OR = 1.42; 95% CI: 1.19-1.71) and limit carbohydrates in the diet (OR = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.1-1.75). The group with a healthy weight was distinguished by eliminating products containing preservatives/artificial colors (OR = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.63-0.91) and performing home exercises, such as yoga or Pilates (OR = 0.68; 0.55-0.84). The obese group relative to the overweight group was more likely to perform regular exercise at least three times a week (OR = 1.5; 95% CI: 1.09-2.06), taking care for the presence of dietary fiber in the daily diet (OR = 1.35; 95% CI: 1.04-1.75) but also not paying much attention to one's diet (OR = 1.23; 95% CI: 1.01-1.5). Conclusions: This study pointed out differences in lifestyle, especially food-related behaviors and physical activity among different BMI groups.