Study finds mindful eating could be key to weight control

Being mindful of what you’re eating could be the key to preventing overeating and obesity, according to a new study by Australian researchers.

The team from Griffith University analysed the psychological and emotional connection to food and eating in 312 individuals.

They found that being able to regulate your emotions and control impulses may help stop overeating and that those who were more mindful of the food in front of them had better food management.

Health experts have long hailed the benefits of being mindful of what you eat. Previous studies have found that eating at the table, rather than in front of the television, can help weight control as you are paying more attention to what you eat and often consuming the food at a slower pace.

Increased technology around the house means that millions are spending more time than ever chowing down in front of a screen.

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Paying attention to the screen means people are focusing less on how much they’re eating and failing to register when they’re full.

The team from Griffith found that women were worse at regulating overeating than men.

They concluded that our emotional state can be the trigger that breaks our ability to rationally control our diet or reach for the block of chocolate instead.

Do you still eat at the dinner table? Do you find yourself eating when you’re upset or bored?

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