Impulsivity as a Determinant of Food Intake: A Cross-Sectional Study of its Role in Eating Attitudes and Behaviors

Objective: This study aims to examine the possible relationships between impulsivity and eating attitudes and behaviors. Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 129 female and 111 male participants, with a mean age of 34.50±12.14 years, were categorized as obese and non-obese according to their body mass index. They were subjected to the Barratt Impulsivity Scale 11, the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire-Revised 21 and the Eating Attitude Test 26. Their impulsivity, eating attitudes and behaviors were compared, and possible relationships between impulsivity and nutritional behaviors were examined. Results: Emotional eating and uncontrolled eating scores of obese individuals were higher compared to those of non-obese individuals, and obese individuals showed a lower Eating Attitude Test score and level of cognitive restriction. No difference was observed in all subscales of Barratt Impulsivity Scale in obese and nonobese individuals. There were positive correlations between all subscales of Barratt Impulsivity Scale and uncontrolled eating score and emotional eating score. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that impulsivity is not higher in obese individuals, but that all sub-dimensions of impulsivity determined by Barratt Impulsivity Scale 11 are associated with uncontrolled and emotional eating behaviors. In the treatment of obesity, determining impulsivity levels and using approaches to reduce impulsivity may increase effectiveness and sustainability of treatment.