Therapy vs. Nutrition Counseling for Picky Eating
(COUNTERACT Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores two approaches to help children and teens with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), which causes very picky eating. One group will use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT-AR, a type of talk therapy) to change eating habits, while another group will receive nutrition counseling to learn about healthy eating. Children and teens aged 10-18 who have ARFID, can read and speak English, and don't have certain medical conditions might be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity for participants to contribute to understanding and improving treatments for ARFID.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Studies have shown that cognitive-behavioral therapy for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (CBT-AR) is generally well-tolerated by children and teens. One study found that 55% of participants no longer met the criteria for the disorder by the end of treatment, suggesting that CBT-AR can be effective without causing serious side effects.
Nutrition counseling focuses on improving health and expanding food choices. This approach is safe, as it involves teaching and guiding participants toward better eating habits. Unlike medications, nutrition counseling does not cause side effects.
In summary, both CBT-AR and nutrition counseling are safe and well-tolerated options for those dealing with ARFID. They focus on changing behaviors and improving diet rather than using drugs.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) because they approach picky eating with innovative methods. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for ARFID (CBT-AR) is unique as it uses psychological techniques to change thought patterns and behaviors associated with food avoidance, potentially offering more lasting changes than traditional approaches like exposure therapy. On the other hand, Nutrition Counseling focuses on educating individuals about balanced diets and healthy eating habits, providing personalized guidance that could be more tailored than generic dietary advice. Both methods aim to address the root causes of ARFID in ways that are more personalized and potentially more effective than standard practices.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for ARFID?
This trial will compare Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (CBT-AR) with Nutrition Counseling. Research has shown that CBT-AR is promising; one study indicated that 85% of patients were rated by their therapists as "much improved" or "very much improved." This therapy helps children and teens try new foods by addressing the reasons behind picky eating and using gradual exposure techniques.
In contrast, Nutrition Counseling, another treatment arm in this trial, focuses on improving overall health by filling nutritional gaps and expanding food choices. It aims to help children and adolescents overcome fears and worries about eating. Although direct data on the effectiveness of nutrition counseling is limited, it is a widely accepted method for managing ARFID.12678Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children and teens aged 10-18 with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), also known as picky eating. Participants must have normal thyroid levels, no active celiac disease, and be fluent in English.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT-AR) or nutrition counseling for 15 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (CBT-AR)
- Nutrition Counseling for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (CBT-AR) is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) in children and adolescents
- Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) in children and adolescents
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Massachusetts General Hospital
Lead Sponsor