What you eat is often framed as a matter of willpower, knowledge, or access. But a new study suggests your surroundings may also play a role.
Researchers from Drexel University found that people who spend more time in nature report healthier eating patterns, including higher intake of fruits and vegetables. The findings, published in Social Science & Medicine, point to a potential link between everyday environments and dietary behavior.
“Our findings are some of the first to show that spending time in nature may promote healthier dietary behaviors,” said study author Dahlia Stott, PhD.
The study surveyed 300 adults across the United States about their time spent in nature over the past week and their eating habits. Researchers looked at different types of nature exposure, including intentional time outdoors, like visiting a park, as well as more passive interactions, such as having plants nearby or being around green spaces.
Both incidental and intentional exposure to nature were associated with better overall diet quality.
To better understand why, the researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 30 participants. A common theme emerged: people who felt more connected to nature were also more motivated to take care of their health.
Participants described how time outdoors helped reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. That shift in mood appeared to influence food choices, making it easier to choose foods like fruits and vegetables.
“We think this can help us design interventions that intentionally harness those connections,” said study co-author Brandy-Joe Milliron, PhD.
The findings reflect a broader idea in nutrition research: eating habits don’t exist in isolation. They are shaped by routines, environments, and mental state.
Still, the study does not show that spending time in nature directly causes healthier eating. The data is based on self-reported behavior, and it’s possible that people who prioritize their health are also more likely to spend time outdoors.
Instead, the relationship is likely more complex. Time in nature may reduce stress, which in turn can influence food choices. It may also reinforce a mindset focused on overall well-being, making healthier decisions feel more natural.
The takeaway isn’t that a walk in the park will automatically change your diet. But it does suggest that small, consistent shifts in environment may support healthier habits over time.
For people looking to improve their eating patterns, that could be a reminder that behavior change doesn’t always start in the kitchen.
The study was conducted by researchers at Drexel University. Specific funding sources were not detailed in the summary.