Cooking skills and food skills among women of reproductive age: the role of mindful eating and socio-demographic factors
Gizem Aytekin-Sahin, Sena Dilsad Akcakaya, Özge Mengi ÇelikPurpose
This study aims to examine the relationship between cooking skills (CSs), food skills (FSs), mindful eating and sociodemographic factors among women of reproductive age.
Design/methodology/approach
This cross-sectional study included 1,337 women aged 18–49 years. The online questionnaire included demographic data, anthropometric measurements, the Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ) and the CS and FS Scale.
Findings
A significant positive link was identified between CSs and FSs and the MEQ (p < 0.001). Conversely, frequent consumption of processed meats, packaged foods, fast food, sugary drinks, baked goods and sandwiches was negatively associated with CSs and FSs (p < 0.05). Linear regression analysis showed that age, marital status, body mass index and MEQ scores significantly influenced CSs and FSs (p < 0.001).
Research limitations/implications
One strength of this study is its novel examination of the relationship between CSs, FSs and mindful eating, supported by a relatively large sample that strengthens reliability. However, the cross-sectional design limits causal inference, underscoring the need for longitudinal research. Reliance on self-reported data may introduce bias, and the online survey format likely attracted younger, more educated and digitally active participants, reducing representativeness. Still, this method facilitated the collection of a large data set.
Practical implications
The current results indicate that mindful eating and sociodemographic factors, particularly age and marital status, may serve as critical determinants in CSs and FSs among women. Main results highlight the necessity of educational and community strategies that jointly promote mindful eating and practical culinary skills.
Originality/value
As far as we know, no studies in the literature have directly examined the interplay between CSs and FSs and mindful eating.