Abstract
Introduction and Study ObjectiveObesity is a growing public health concern in France and globally, contributing to the development of numerous chronic diseases. Mindful eating—an approach focused on paying attention to physical sensations and emotions during eating, without judgment—offers an innovative alternative to restrictive diets, which often prove ineffective in the long term. While previous studies have highlighted a positive link between mindful eating and improvements in eating habits and body weight, such research remains underrepresented in France, largely due to the absence of validated tools specific to the population. Our work is part of a broader project called Mind-Eat, which has led to the creation and validation of a French mindful eating questionnaire (Mind-Eat Scale), and also aims to develop a mindful eating program tailored to individuals with obesity. The present study focuses on exploring the lived experiences of patients who participated in a mindful eating program initiated at a French hospital. Ultimately, this study will contribute to the refinement and validation of the program.Materials and MethodsThis study is based on eleven semi-structured interviews conducted with overweight or obese patients who participated in one of the two most recent mindful eating programs as part of their hospital care. The program is an adapted version of Professor Jon Kabat-Zinn’s Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program, tailored to the obese population. The program spans eight consecutive weeks, including weekly group sessions and at-home exercises. Each week, a different theme is explored, such as understanding hunger and the body, satiety and pleasure, food-related conditioning, emotions and stress, reactions and responses, core values, and serenity. An interview guide focusing on the patient’s experience during the program was developed. Participants were invited to discuss their personal experiences, freely expressing their opinions, feelings, and suggestions for program improvements. The interviews were recorded using a voice recorder for transcription purposes, and the verbatim analysis was conducted using N'Vivo software based on thematic content analysis.Results and Statistical AnalysesThe interviews took place between March and May 2022, conducted in person, via videoconference, or by phone depending on the participant's preference, and lasted an average of one hour. The participants were eleven overweight or obese women aged between 33 and 72 years. The thematic analysis of the verbatim data revealed twelve themes. This study focuses on the theme of "Perceived Changes After the Program." First, we identified changes in eating behaviors, including increased awareness of one's behaviors, improved attention to physical sensations and needs, and the development of food-related pleasure. Changes were also noted in food purchases, consumption habits, and cooking techniques. Sensory developments were reported, particularly in the use of the five senses and body sensations. Psychological improvements emerged as well, such as enhanced self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-respect, along with a shift in mindset and behavior related to letting go. Additionally, new physical or social activities were adopted, and there was a positive effect on weight loss.ConclusionThis study highlights the behavioral and psychological benefits perceived by overweight or obese individuals who participated in a mindful eating program. These changes led to improvements in their relationship with food and with themselves, as well as a positive effect on body weight. These findings will play a crucial role in adapting and validating a mindful eating program tailored to the obese population in France. This work paves the way for new practical and research perspectives on this topic in the years to come.