Psychological flexibility in intuitive eating

What is it about?

Intuitive eating is a form of healthy eating regulation based on bodily cues of hunger and satiety. This study investigates psychological processes that could be used to promote intuitive eating and weight management. Increase in psychological flexibility during Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) interventions mediated changes in body mass index and intuitive eating behaviors.

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Why is it important?

The long-term benefits of weight-loss programs based on restricted eating are questionable as the majority of individuals eventually regain the weight they lose. Intuitive eating offers an alternative approach to restricted eating. Despite the promising results related to intuitive eating, few studies have attempted to explain the processes encouraging this adaptive eating behavior. The focus of the present study was on exploring mechanisms of change in intuitive eating and weight in the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)- interventions. The findings of the study offer important clinical implications. They suggest that ACT interventions aiming for lifestyle changes increase intuitive eating regulation through the enhanced weight-related psychological flexibility.