Mindful eating levels of anesthesiology and reanimation physicians: a cross-sectional study

Mindful eating is associated with healthier eating behaviors, better weight control, and reduced emotional eating. Anesthesiology and reanimation physicians face unique occupational risks-including irregular shift work, high workload, and chronic stress-that may predispose them to unhealthy eating patterns. This study aimed to evaluate mindful eating levels and their associations with sociodemographic factors and body mass index (BMI) in this high-risk population.

This cross-sectional study was conducted among anesthesiology and reanimation physicians working in Turkey. Data were collected between November 2024 and January 2025 using a structured online questionnaire distributed via Google Forms through professional networks. Convenience and snowball sampling methods were employed. A total of 212 physicians (136 women, 76 men) completed the Turkish version of the Mindful Eating Questionnaire (YFÖ-30/MEQ-30) along with demographic and dietary habit questions.

The mean total Mindful Eating Score (MES) was 3.28 ± 0.52 in women and 3.08 ± 0.47 in men (p = 0.002). Women had significantly higher mindful eating scores than men across most subscales and in the total score (p = 0.002). Mindful eating scores increased with age and academic title, with professors showing the highest levels. A moderate negative association was observed between total mindful eating score and BMI (r = -0.44, p < 0.001). Over half of the participants (51%) were overweight or obese.

This study demonstrates that mindful eating levels are relatively low among Turkish anesthesiology and reanimation physicians and are inversely associated with BMI. These findings highlight the need for targeted workplace nutrition and mindful eating interventions in this high-stress specialty. Longitudinal and interventional studies are warranted to confirm these associations and evaluate potential benefits.