Nature connectedness and healthy eating: The possible role of self-control

Abstract

Nature connectedness has been shown to promote healthier eating behaviors, yet the underlying processes remain underexplored. The present study investigates self-control, informed by stress reduction theory and attention restoration theory, as a critical mediator in this relationship through three studies. Study 1 (n = 200) employed a cross-sectional survey and confirmed the positive association between nature connectedness and healthy eating behaviors, while providing preliminary evidence for the mediating role of self-control. Study 2 (n = 193) employed an online experiment to manipulate nature connectedness and found that increased nature connectedness elevated self-control, which was then linked to healthier food choices in a lunch scenario. Study 3 (n = 256), using a three-wave longitudinal study, further validated that self-control mediated the nature connectedness–healthy eating behaviors link. Together, these studies converge to suggest that self-control may serve as a key psychological pathway linking nature connectedness with healthy eating behaviors. Our research suggests that nature-based interventions targeting self-control enhancement may serve as an effective approach for promoting sustainable healthy eating behaviors.