Can mindfulness training reduce disordered eating or increase intuitive eating?

Ramsey-Wade, Christine; Daniels, Elizabeth; Williamson, Heidi; Atkinson, Melissa; Halliwell, Emma

Abstract

Background and Aims

Disordered eating is widespread, and further evidence-based interventions are needed to address this. Mindful Eating – Conscious Living™ (ME-CL) is an American 8-week mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) built upon the framework of previous, effective MBIs that focuses on cultivating a joyful relationship with food. ME-CL is currently being delivered internationally, without any formal evaluation. The aim of this research was to investigate the acceptability, feasibility and effectiveness of ME-CL.

Methods

This study employed a quantitative design to conduct a time series analysis of ME-CL. A non-randomised controlled trial with an internal control and a 9-month follow-up was conducted (N = 47). Self-report questionnaires measured a range of factors, including disordered eating behaviour, body appreciation, and intuitive eating.

Findings

Linear mixed models produced significant trends over time on all scales and sub-scales. Paired sample t-tests showed that all trends moved in the predicted direction.

Discussion

Mindful Eating – Conscious Living™ can reduce disordered eating and increase intuitive eating in women with an interest in mindfulness. Further trials are warranted with more diverse samples, in fully randomised designs, to investigate ME-CL™ and its key components.

• Presentation Conference Type: Poster
• Conference Name: Appearance Matters 10
• Start Date: Jun 11, 2024
• End Date: Jun 13, 2024
• Deposit Date: Jun 28, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 28, 2024
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/12086794