Training self-regulation to promote healthy eating: Evidence from a longitudinal intervention study

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Psychology
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Self-regulatory strategies' effectiveness in appetite control is debated.
• Limited research exists on their causal impact on daily eating behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the causal impact of situation-based strategies and cognitive reappraisal on eating behaviors.
• To examine both short-term and long-term effects of these self-regulatory strategies.

Main Methods:

• 360 participants were trained in situation-based or cognitive reappraisal strategies.
• Participants applied strategies to healthy or unhealthy foods.
• Eating behaviors were assessed longitudinally (short-term and long-term).

Main Results:

• Strategy training generally improved healthy eating, increasing craving for healthy foods and reducing unhealthy food consumption.
• Transfer effects observed: healthy food training boosted resistance to unhealthy foods; unhealthy food training increased healthy food craving and consumption.
• Both strategies demonstrated effectiveness in altering eating behaviors.

Conclusions:

• Situation-based strategies and cognitive reappraisal are effective for promoting healthier eating.
• These interventions yield immediate and lasting benefits, including unexpected transfer effects.
• Self-regulation training offers a promising avenue for behavioral change in diet.