Food Neophobia Lowers Mediterranean Diet Quality and May Increase Mindful Eating: A Cross-sectional Study

Aim: To assess the relationship between Mediterranean diet quality and food neophobia and mindful eating. Subjects and Method: In this study, 1026 individuals aged 18-24 years who voluntarily agreed to participate were included. In the study, questionnaire form, Food Neophobia Scale (FNS), Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ-30), Mediterranean Diet Quality Scale (KIDMED) were used as data collection tools. Anthropometric measurements such as height, weight, hip and waist circumferences were measured and body mass index, waist-hip ratio were calculated Results: No significant difference was observed in the mean KIDMED scores of subjects. However, the MEQ-30 score of male subjects was significantly lower than that of female subjects (p<0.05). The FNS score of those with low KIDMED scores was higher than that of those with moderate KIDMED scores. The MEQ-30 score of the participants with low KIDMED score was lower than that of the participants with moderate KIDMED score (p<0.05). A negative correlation was found between MEQ-30 score and body weight, waist and hip circumferences, body mass index and waist/hip ratio. It was observed that lower body weight was associated with higher FNS score (r=0.062, p=0.047). As FNS score increased, KIDMED score decreased and MEQ-30 score increased. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that anthropometric measurements, and KIDMED scores had no significant effect on FNS score. Conclusion: Food neophobia can be a significant barrier to healthy eating. It is important to adopt effective nutritional strategies against food neophobia to prevent the detrimental effects of food neophobia on future health. In addition, although food mindfulness helps individuals to be aware of what they eat without prejudice and to maintain control over their eating, it may increase food neophobia.