Examining the Efficacy of Mindfulness-Based Interventions in Treating Obesity, Obesity-Related Eating Disorders, and Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Mindfulness is the practice of focusing one’s attention and energy on the present moment with an accepting attitude and an open mindset. Its adoption is increasingly utilized in addressing health concerns, particularly in the realm of nutrition. Mindful eating seeks to adjust disordered eating patterns by cultivating intentional awareness of the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of eating. Mindfulness techniques may involve meditation, breathing exercises, and simply being more attentive in daily activities. Integrating mindfulness into a nutrition strategy may improve digestion, foster a healthier relationship with food, and lead to making better choices aligned with overall well-being. This critical review aims to examine recent prevailing studies on the effects of mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) on weight regulation, eating disorders related to obesity, emotional eating, and diabetes management. For the methods section, the study utilized the Google Scholar and PubMed databases, employing the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) descriptors. The search included articles published up to September 2024, resulting in a total of 122 articles gathered using various keyword combinations. Results show that out of the 122 studies, 28 articles were common, leaving a total of 94 articles. They included 33 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 17 systematic reviews and meta-analyses, 11 observational studies, 14 reviews, and 19 others. The findings from these studies demonstrate the positive impact of MBI on conditions such as binge eating disorder, weight loss, emotional eating, and diabetes-related issues. In conclusion, the review supports the growing evidence suggesting that the incorporation of mindfulness can play a crucial role in managing obesity, eating disorders, and their associated consequences. However, further research is necessary to establish a definitive understanding of its effectiveness and how to integrate it into healthcare practices.