When adapting Tylka's intuitive eating scale for adolescents, what factor was identified as key for intuitive eating?

Trusting the body's innate hunger and satiety cues is fundamental to the practice of intuitive eating, especially for adolescents. This principle emphasizes the importance of being attuned to one's internal signals that indicate when to eat and when to stop eating. For adolescents, who are experiencing various physical and emotional changes, developing this trust is crucial for fostering a healthy relationship with food and body image.

When individuals learn to listen to their hunger and fullness signals, they can make food choices based on their physical needs rather than external pressures or restrictive diets. This ability not only supports healthier eating patterns but also encourages a greater sense of body autonomy and self-acceptance, which is particularly important during the adolescent years when identity formation is key.

While factors like self-confidence in making balanced food choices, the ability to prepare food for themselves, and positive messages from parents can also contribute to a healthy relationship with food, the core of intuitive eating specifically focuses on the individual's ability to listen to and trust their own body’s cues. This self-trust is vital for long-term success in intuitive eating practices.