The Effects of External Cues Versus Internal Cues Messaging on Heart Rate Variability and Affect

The Effects of External Cues Versus Internal Cues Messaging on Heart Rate Variability and Affect

This randomized controlled trial will assess the effects of External Cues focused messaging (i.e., government recommendations of MyPlate) compared to Internal Cues focused messaging (i.e., intuitive eating). The investigators will collect data on within-person changes in psychological (e.g. affect) and physiological (e.g. heart rate variability) outcomes in female college students.

Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two study conditions. In condition one, participants will view a five-minute video focusing on traditional nutrition education principles. In condition two, participants will view a five-minute video focusing on intuitive eating principles.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18-29 years old
• identify as female
• college student

Exclusion Criteria:

• outside of the age range of 18-29 years
• do not self-identify as female
• not able to attend an in-person study visit at the University of Delaware