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.