IE appears to be positively associated with positive body image, self-esteem, and overall well-being and inversely associated with body weight, disordered eating behaviors, eating disorder psychopathology, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. However, no significant association with stress has been noted.[1]
The IE approach has shown mixed results for reducing BMI and weight in people with obesity, potentially due to the heterogeneity of the study designs and methodologies employed, as well as the low compliance rate.[2][3]
Furthermore, a meta-analysis reported positive scores on the intuitive eating scale (IES) after IE interventions. Preliminary evidence also suggests that IE interventions may have positive effects on various mental health outcomes, including improvements in quality of life, body image, and body appreciation.[4]
Various IE studies also revealed that diet quality appears to be either maintained or improved after the intervention.[5]