Relationship of attitudes for healthy nutrition with mindful eating, motivation to participate in physical activity, and academic success: A controlled study

Abstract

In this study, we examined the relationship between university students' attitudes toward healthy nutrition with mindful eating, motivation to participate in physical activity, and academic success. A total of 497 healthy students aged between 21 and 38 were randomly selected from among senior students of the Faculty of Health Sciences and nonhealth-related faculties. In the study, a questionnaire form consisting of questions about the socio-demographic characteristics of the participants were used, along with the Attitude Scale for Healthy Nutrition (ASHN), Mindful Eating Questionnaire, and Motivation Scale for Participation in Physical Activity. The total scores of ASHN and MEQ were found to be significantly higher in those studying in health-related departments and those with high academic success. In addition, a significant inverse relationship was found between the total score of MEQ and BMI and waist circumference. A statistically significant and positive correlation was found between the total mean score of ASHN and the total mean score of MEQ and MSPPA. It has been concluded that the development of healthy eating and lifestyle habits in university students positively affects their academic success as well as their general health.