MindFuel Lab: Applied and Experimental Research in Behaviour Change and Eating

Lab Overview

The research conducted in the MindFuel Lab focuses on various aspects of behaviour change and eating behaviour, employing both applied and experimental methodologies. Peer-reviewed journal articles from the lab cover a wide range of topics, including the development and validation of scales, exploring the effects of mindfulness-based interventions on mind-body health, investigating the relationships between mindfulness, self-compassion, and other mindfulness-based intervention for various aspects of eating behaviour and wellbeing, and examining the role of mindfulness-based constructs in specific populations. Additionally, research in the lab explores mechanisms underlying behaviour change, such as the moderating role of acceptance, self-compassion, and mindfulness in influencing eating behaviours, mental health outcomes, academic performance and wellbeing, as well as sustainability. Through rigorous empirical investigation, the lab aims to contribute to the understanding of behaviour change processes and inform the development of effective interventions to promote health and well-being.

The MindFuel Lab is dedicated to advancing knowledge and interventions in human behaviour, particularly in the context of eating habits and other health outcomes.

Our research aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 2: Zero Hunger, Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities, and Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Our research areas include the effects of mindfulness on mind-body health, the relationships between mindfulness, self-compassion, and eating behaviours, and the mechanisms underlying behaviour change. By exploring these areas, we contribute to the promotion of healthy lifestyles, mental health, and sustainable consumption patterns, addressing issues of hunger, health disparities, and inequality in access to health-promoting resources.

We strive to create a supportive and equitable space where all members can thrive, collaborate, and contribute to our collective goals. By embracing diversity, we aim to reflect the rich variety of perspectives in our research and ensure that our work benefits all communities. Our commitment to inclusivity extends to our partnerships and collaborations, as we work with a diverse group of institutions and industry partners to advance scientific knowledge and promote health and well-being for everyone. At the MindFuel Lab, we are dedicated to creating a culture of respect, equity, and inclusion, recognising that these values are fundamental to achieving excellence in research and making meaningful contributions to society.

Research Areas

The research conducted in the MindFuel Lab focuses on various aspects of behaviour change and eating behaviour, employing both applied and experimental methodologies. Peer-reviewed journal articles from the lab cover a wide range of topics, including the development and validation of scales, exploring the effects of mindfulness interventions on mind-body health, investigating the relationships between mindfulness, self-compassion, and other mindfulness-based intervention for various aspects of eating behaviour and wellbeing, and examining the role of mindfulness in diverse populations. Additionally, research in the lab explores mechanisms underlying behaviour change, such as the moderating role of acceptance, self-compassion, and mindfulness in influencing eating behaviours, mental health outcomes, academic wellbeing and performance, as well as sustainability behaviours. Through rigorous empirical investigation, the lab aims to contribute to the understanding of behaviour change processes and inform the development of effective interventions to promote health and well-being.

Research Team

Collaborations:

  • Prof Fuschia Sirois, Durham University
  • Dr Kyriaki Giannou, De Montfort University

Facilities:

We are utilising the Food Lab at Birmingham City University, which is equipped with the latest equipment and technology, and offers researchers unprecedented opportunities to conduct rigorous experimental research on behavioural change related to food consumption and decision-making. By using multidisciplinary approaches and cutting-edge methodologies, researchers aim to advance scientific understanding of eating behaviour and develop effective interventions to promote healthy eating habits and prevent diet-related illnesses.