Can heart rate variability predict and mitigate restrained eaters’ disinhibited eating as moderated by frontal asymmetry? - Laura McGeown (2021)

This research aimed to clarify the mechanisms of restraint theory by investigating whether physiological and neurological markers could predict disinhibited eating behaviors in restrained eaters. Specifically, the study examined heart rate variability (HRV) as a potential predictor and mitigator of "overeating" episodes, while also considering the moderating role of frontal brain asymmetry. By monitoring these physiological signals, the research sought to identify whether certain individuals are more biologically predisposed to lose control over their eating habits when under stress or caloric restriction. The findings provide a deeper understanding of the "boundaries" of restraint, suggesting that internal self-regulatory strength—indicated by HRV—interacts with neurological patterns to influence eating behavior. This work offers significant implications for developing personalized interventions for disordered eating, emphasizing the importance of physiological self-regulation in managing dietary restraint.