Nature & Diet

Time spent in nature is associated with positive physical and mental health outcomes, as well as higher levels of environmental stewardship.  A recent study examined the relationship between nature relatedness, feeling connection to the natural world, and diet choices.

Researchers surveyed 317 adults who live in Philadelphia, PA about their sense of nature relatedness and their diet.  A strong sense of nature relatedness was associated with a higher intake of fruit and vegetables, as well as greater diversity of food choices.  These findings highlight the need for interventions that enhance nature relatedness, such as nature prescriptions, urban gardening, and immersion in green and blue spaces.

Takeaway:  Summer is a great time to get out in nature, which may increase your sense of nature relatedness, as well as increase the amount of fruit and veggies that you eat.  Perhaps a farmer’s market is in order!

Well-being is a journey, not a quick fix

Source Brandy-Joe Milliron, PhD, et al., Nature Relatedness is Positively Associated with Dietary Diversity and Fruit and Vegetable Intake in an Urban Population, American Journal of Health Promotion, Apr. 5, 2022, Nature Relatedness Is Positively Associated With Dietary Diversity and Fruit and Vegetable Intake in an Urban Population - Brandy-Joe Milliron, Dane Ward, Janeway Granche, Janell Mensinger, Dahlia Stott, Claire Chenault, Franco Montalto, Eugenia V. Ellis, 2022 (sagepub.com).