New study reveals that increasing time spent outdoors can lead to changes in dietary choices

The latest research conducted by the European Institute of Business Administration (INSEAD) has shed light on a fascinating connection between outdoor activity and healthy eating habits. The study, published in the academic journal Communications Psychology, suggests that spending time in natural settings can lead individuals to make healthier food choices.

The study involved a group of participants who were divided into two groups. One group was asked to take a 20-minute stroll through a park, while the other group walked through crowded streets in central Paris. After the walk, both groups were offered a buffet with healthy and less healthy food options. Surprisingly, the group that walked through the park opted for a healthier ratio of 70/30, while the city group chose a less healthy ratio of 39/61.

In another experiment, participants were placed in hotel rooms with either nature views or obscured urban views. Once again, those with nature views made healthier meal choices compared to those with restricted views. This suggests that exposure to nature can influence individuals to make healthier lifestyle decisions.

Co-author Maria Langlois, who came up with the idea for the study during a bike ride, noticed that her friends made healthier food choices while biking through the environment. This observation inspired the research team to explore the link between outdoor activity and healthy eating habits.

The implications of the study are significant, especially in a world that is becoming increasingly urbanized. With the rise of skyscrapers and a shift towards indoor fitness activities, there is a concern that people may be making less healthy food choices due to a lack of exposure to nature. The researchers at INSEAD recommend incorporating environmental imagery in eating spaces to encourage healthier choices and suggest that food producers use similar imagery on packaging.

The study serves as a reminder to reflect on the greenness of our lifestyles and the importance of spending time outdoors. By adding an extra hour or two of outdoor exercise to our daily routines, we may be more inclined to make healthier food choices. So, if you’re looking to improve your eating habits, consider incorporating more outdoor activities into your lifestyle.

Overall, the research highlights the powerful influence of nature on our decision-making processes and underscores the importance of connecting with the environment for overall well-being. As we navigate an increasingly urbanized world, finding ways to incorporate nature into our daily lives may be key to promoting healthier choices and a balanced lifestyle.