Mindful Motivation for Binge Eating
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new approach for individuals who are overweight and struggle with binge eating. It combines mindful eating techniques with motivational interviewing to determine if it reduces binge eating more effectively than meditation alone. Participants will meditate daily and, if in the Mindful Motivation group, receive brief counseling over eight weeks. Suitable candidates experience frequent binge eating episodes that cause distress and have access to a smartphone or computer. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative strategies for managing binge eating.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It is best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this intervention is safe for people with overweight and binge eating?
Research has shown that mindfulness-based activities are generally safe and manageable for most people. Studies indicate that mindfulness techniques, such as those in the Mindful Motivation program, usually have few negative effects. Participants often find these practices calming and easy to incorporate into daily life.
Motivational interviewing, which helps individuals discover their reasons for making changes, is also considered safe. This approach facilitates discussions about desired changes, such as improving eating habits.
No evidence suggests significant risks with these activities. They are non-invasive and focus on providing mental and emotional support. While individual experiences may vary, the combination of mindful eating and motivational interviewing in this trial is expected to be well-received by most participants.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about Mindful Motivation for binge eating because it combines mindfulness with motivational interviewing, a unique approach not commonly used together in current treatments. While standard care often includes cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication, this treatment leverages digital tools, such as Headspace, to make mindfulness more accessible. By integrating online counseling and support forums, it offers a personalized and flexible experience that could empower individuals to manage their eating habits more effectively.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for binge eating?
Research shows that mindfulness-based programs can help reduce binge eating. Studies have found that these programs significantly decrease the number of binge eating episodes. For example, a group meditation program reduced binge eating from about four times to 1.5 times per week. Mindfulness practices also improve control over eating and increase awareness of fullness. In this trial, participants in the Mindful Motivation Group will experience a combination of mindful eating and motivational interviewing, which might effectively manage binge eating. Meanwhile, participants in the Active Control Condition will engage in a meditation intervention.36789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Rachel Radin, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Francisco
Elissa Epel, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Francisco
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals who are overweight and struggle with binge eating. Participants will be asked to complete online questionnaires, provide body composition data, and meditate daily. They must not have conditions that exclude them from the study.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants engage in an 8-week program involving mindful eating and motivational interviewing, with digital meditation
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in weight, waist circumference, and glucose levels
Optional Extension
Participants have access to optional educational materials and an online support forum
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Meditation
- Mindful Motivation
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, San Francisco
Lead Sponsor
DexCom, Inc.
Industry Sponsor
Kevin Sayer
DexCom, Inc.
Chief Executive Officer since 2015
Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Accounting and Information Systems from Brigham Young University
Dr. Shelly Lane
DexCom, Inc.
Chief Medical Officer since 2023
MD from University of California, San Diego
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)
Collaborator
Headspace Meditation Limited
Industry Sponsor