The relationship between mindful eating and body mass index among university students

Mindfulness can promote healthier lifestyles and dietary habits, which may support weight loss. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between mindful eating and body mass index among university students. A total of 437 participants’ height and weight were obtained, and the Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ) was administered via a self-reported online form. Findings showed that 25.9% of the participants were overweight, and 15.6% were obese. A significant positive relationship was discovered between the total mean MEQ and BMI among university students (r = .105, n = 437, p = < .05). Moreover, split correlation showed that the relationship was significant among males (r = .209, p = < .01) but not among females (p > .05). The total mean MEQ score was significantly greater among males, including for the factors of disinhibition and awareness (p < .05), while females exhibited significantly higher emotional responses than males (p < .05). These findings showed that eating awareness increased with BMI and was more prevalent in men. Overall, a better awareness of eating behavior should be encouraged among university students, particularly those who are overweight.