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Abstract

Background: Mindful eating behaviour and self-compassion have been individually shown to contribute to healthy eating. Evidence suggests that they may interact and that interaction may increase our understanding of eating behaviour. Aims: The aim of the current study was to explore the relationship between mindful eating, self-compassion, healthy / unhealthy weight, eating disorder and wellbeing in a sample of university students Methods: An online survey using questionnaire data collection in a sample of 349 students (105 males and 244 females). Variables measured included body mass index (BMI), mindful eating, eating attitudes, self-compassion and mental wellbeing. Results: Regression and path analysis show mindful eating and self-compassion to individually and interaction predict eating attitudes and wellbeing. BMI was shown to have a curvilinear relationship with mindful eating, self-compassion and wellbeing with both the underweight and obese reporting lower self-compassion, less mindful eating, lower wellbeing and more likely to exhibit disordered eating. Conclusions: These results indicate that self-compassion and mindful eating behaviour might be usefully targeted in interventions to prevent both obesity and eating disorder.