Nutrition Research · Oct 15, 2026

Intuitive and mindful eating show no effects on anthropometric outcomes but may reduce fat mass: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

By Zeraattalab-Motlagh S, Ledoux T

Conventional weight management commonly includes caloric restriction, physical activity, and behavior therapy; however, long-term adherence remains challenging. Intuitive eating and mindful eating offer a potential alternative, though effects on weight-related outcomes remain unclear. This meta-analysis of intervention trials aimed to clarify the effects of intuitive and mindful eating on weight-related outcomes in adults. PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science were searched until November 2025. Eligible trials examined intuitive or mindful eating and reported outcomes on weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and fat mass. Random-effects analyses were conducted to assess mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). The evidence certainty was assessed using GRADE. Eighteen trials comprising 1465 adults were included. Intuitive and mindful eating had similar effects on BMI as the active control and a higher reduction than no treatment (MD: -0.48 vs 0.33 kg/m2). A greater reduction was also observed among women compared with both sexes (MD: -0.43 vs 0.21 kg/m²). Regardless of control type, a small reduction in fat mass was observed (MD: -0.02 kg, 95% CI: -0.03, -0.01) with low evidence certainty. However, no significant effects were observed for weight and WC. The effect of intuitive and mindful eating on BMI was comparable to active control, while a greater reduction in BMI was observed compared with no treatment. Although a small reduction in fat mass was observed, evidence certainty was low. Future high-quality, long-duration trials are needed to confirm these effects.

doi.org/10.1016/j.nutres.2026.10.005PubMed 42994121Interventions