Negative Affect Task for Binge Eating Disorder
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to explore the link between negative feelings and binge eating in conditions like binge eating disorder (BED) and bulimia nervosa (BN). Researchers are investigating whether these feelings connect to changes in brain functions related to reward and control, potentially leading to new treatments. Participants who frequently experience binge eating episodes, feel distressed about it, or use compensatory behaviors like self-induced vomiting might be suitable candidates. The study also seeks to understand how these brain changes might increase vulnerability to binge eating. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could lead to new insights and treatments for binge eating disorders.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it does exclude participants who are on medications other than birth control pills (BCP) or intrauterine devices (IUD) for healthy controls and obese participants. For those with Binge Eating Disorder or Bulimia Nervosa, there is no mention of stopping current medications, but certain medications like psychostimulants are excluded.
What prior data suggests that the Negative Affect Task is safe for participants?
Research has shown that the Negative Affect Task is being studied as a potential treatment for binge-eating disorders, but there is limited direct information about its safety. Most studies focus on understanding binge-eating behaviors rather than specifically assessing the safety of this task.
As a behavioral treatment, it is generally considered low-risk compared to medication. Behavioral tasks like the Negative Affect Task usually involve activities or exercises designed to change certain behaviors or thought patterns. These tasks are typically non-invasive, meaning they don't involve surgery or drugs.
Participants in similar behavioral studies often report mild discomfort, mainly because the tasks might evoke negative emotions or thoughts. However, there have been no reports of serious issues directly caused by this task. If approved, any potential risks are expected to be minimal and will be closely monitored by the researchers.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
The Negative Affect Task is unique because it addresses binge eating disorder by focusing on emotional triggers rather than just dietary habits. Traditional treatments for binge eating, like cognitive-behavioral therapy and medications such as antidepressants, often focus on altering behavior or chemical imbalances. However, this task aims to help individuals better understand and manage the negative emotions that can lead to binge eating episodes. Researchers are excited about this approach because it could offer a more personalized way to prevent binge eating by directly tackling the emotional aspects that are often overlooked in other treatments.
What evidence suggests that the Negative Affect Task is effective for binge eating disorder?
Research has shown that feeling sad or upset often precedes binge-eating episodes in individuals with binge-eating disorder (BED) and bulimia nervosa (BN). Studies have found that people with BED often struggle with problem-solving and decision-making tasks when in a negative mood, suggesting their brains might process emotions and rewards differently. One study found that training to improve self-control can help reduce the urge to eat when tempted by food. These findings suggest that managing negative emotions and enhancing self-control might help manage binge-eating behaviors. Participants in this trial will engage in the Negative Affect Task to explore these aspects further.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Guido KW Frank, MD
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Diego
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults aged 18-55 with obesity (BMI > 30 kg/m2) and diagnosed with Bulimia Nervosa or Binge Eating Disorder, experiencing marked distress from binge eating. Participants should have a stable weight and food intake for the past month, no major medical illnesses, no history of substance abuse or certain psychiatric disorders, not pregnant or breastfeeding, and without metal implants.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Experimental Task Phase
Participants undergo fMRI tasks to study brain activation in response to negative affect during taste reward and food choice paradigms
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for brain activation and food intake/negative affect relationships over a long-term period
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Negative Affect Task
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, San Diego
Lead Sponsor
Sanford Research
Collaborator
University of Colorado, Denver
Collaborator