The mediating role of mindfulness in the relationship between digital health literacy and e-healthy nutrition literacy

BACKGROUND: This study examined the effect of digital health literacy on e-healthy nutrition literacy and investigated the mediating role of mindfulness in this relationship. METHOD: The study was conducted in May 2024 with 616 students from health-related programs at a university in Central Anatolia, Turkey. Data were collected using a General Information Form, the Adolescent and Adult Mindfulness Scale (AAMS), the e-Healthy Nutrition Literacy Scale, and the Digital Health Literacy Instrument (DHLI). Statistical analyses included correlation, regression, and bootstrap mediation analysis (95% CI, p < 0.05). RESULTS: Digital health literacy showed a positive relationship with e-healthy nutrition literacy through mindfulness (β = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.06–0.63, p < 0.05). Although the direct effect of digital health literacy on e-healthy nutrition literacy was not statistically significant (p > 0.05), mindfulness showed a significant mediating effect. CONCLUSION: Mindfulness strengthens the relationship between digital health literacy and e-healthy nutrition literacy. Integrating mindfulness into digital health interventions may increase university students’ nutrition literacy and encourage healthier eating behaviors.