Mindful Eating Promotes Healthier Food Choices

Researchers at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University recently studied the effect of mindful eating on adolescents. The study results “showed that mindfulness-based eating awareness training encouraged adolescents to eat healthier and exercise more and marginalized their tendency to gain weight.”[1]

The study observed six high school health classes over 12 weeks. One group of students continued with their regular health classes while an intervention group practiced weekly mindfulness techniques teaching awareness. Students were taught how to listen to their bodies and “how emotions can trigger overeating as well as the benefit of mindful movement”.

Researchers reported that students who practiced mindful eating lost weight, exercised more and ate healthier.

Regardless of your age, you may benefit from practicing a mindfulness-based approach to eating. Start by determining if you are truly hungry and always try to be aware of what you are eating and how quickly.

[1] https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/04/160404111519.htm