Mindfulness and distressed eating: Evaluating the acceptability, feasibility and preliminary efficacy of two online mindful eating programmes

Ramsey-Wade, Christine

Abstract

Title
Mindfulness and distressed eating: Evaluating the acceptability, feasibility and preliminary efficacy of two online mindful eating programmes
Abstract
Objective
‘Mindful eating’ apps, guided meditations, books and online programmes are proliferating. Most of these interventions have never been evaluated for acceptability or efficacy. This project will test two online mindful eating programme – one synchronous, one asynchronous – under research conditions.
Design/methodology
The first stage of the project tested the acceptability of the Mindful Eating – Conscious Living™ programme. Three focus groups (n = 12) were held with adult women in the UK with an interest in mindfulness and/or (un)healthy eating. Focus groups were held on a UK university campus, and data was analysed using reflective thematic analysis.
Due to Covid, the second stage of the project was delayed, and changes to the design were required. So far, 5 participants have been recruited to undertake an asynchronous mindful eating programme . Pre, post and one month follow up data will be collected on a range of measures alongside qualitative data on participants’ experience.
Meanwhile, 14 participants have now been recruited to attend online ME-CL classes within a mixed-methods efficacy trial. Three runs of the programme are planned, each with an initial control period, forming a non-randomised trial with an internal control. Pre, post, mid-way and 1 month follow up data will be collected to explore outcomes and potential mediators, alongside further qualitative data.
Results/findings
Results from the qualitative acceptability study indicated that the programme was acceptable to UK women, with some useful points of consideration for teachers delivering this American programme in the UK.
This paper will detail these results alongside the preliminary results from the trial of the asynchronous programme, and an update on the trial of ME-CL.
Conclusions/implications
Subclinical disordered eating is widespread. Mindfulness in general shows some initial promise to address this. This project aims to further explore the potential of mindfulness for disordered eating.

• Presentation Conference Type: Presentation / Talk
• Conference Name: International Conference of Mindfulness 2021
• Start Date: Jul 8, 2021
• Deposit Date: Oct 3, 2022
• Publicly Available Date: Oct 3, 2022
• Keywords: Mindfulness , distressed eating, Mindful eating, Mindful diet, Mindful eating programmes
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/10011001
• Related Public URLs: https://www.themindfulnessinitiative.org/Event/international-conference-on-mindfulness-2021