The mediating role of Mediterranean diet adherence between mindful eating, sustainable and healthy eating behaviours, and quality of life

Abstract This study aimed to examine the mediating role of Mediterranean diet adherence in the relationships between mindful eating, sustainable and healthy eating behaviours, and quality of life (QoL) among young adults, while also testing the moderating role of MEDAS in these relationships. This cross-sectional study was conducted with 1,746 individuals aged 18–30 years in Southeast Türkiye. Data were collected using a questionnaire including sociodemographic questions, the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Scale (MEDAS), Mindful Eating Scale (MEQ), Sustainable and Healthy Eating Behaviour Scale, and the SF-36 Quality of Life Scale. Data were analysed using Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression, mediation, and moderation analyses. Mindful eating and sustainable and healthy eating behaviours showed positive correlations with QoL. Regression analysis indicated that mindful eating and sustainable and healthy eating behaviours were significant predictors of QoL. Mediation analyses indicated that MEDAS did not significantly mediate the associations of mindful eating or sustainable and healthy eating behaviours with QoL. Moderation analysis further showed that MEDAS significantly strengthened the positive association between sustainable and healthy eating behaviours and QoL, although it did not moderate the association between mindful eating and QoL. QoL is influenced not only by MEDAS but also, and to a greater extent directly, by mindful eating and sustainable healthy eating behaviors. MEDAS strengthens the association between sustainable healthy eating behaviors and QoL, suggesting a combined rather than a purely sequential effect. This study may be useful in developing behavior-focused dietary interventions aimed at improving dietary habits and QoL among young adults.