Brain-network neurofeedback to reduce food cravings
Connectome-based neurofeedback of the craving network to reduce food cue-reactivity
Using real-time MRI feedback of whole-brain connectivity to help adults with overweight or obesity reduce reactions to food cues and cravings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11296933 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You'll receive real-time fMRI sessions that show feedback based on how different brain regions communicate in a craving-related network. The feedback is generated from a predictive connectome model so you learn to change network-level brain activity linked to cravings. Training aims to lower brain responses to food pictures, reduce subjective craving, and link those changes to real eating behavior. Sessions will be conducted in person at the research site and include behavioral and brain measurements before and after training.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults aged 21 or older with overweight or obesity who experience strong food cue–related cravings and are able to undergo MRI are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People under 21, those without overweight/obesity, or anyone who cannot safely have an MRI (for example due to metal implants or severe claustrophobia) are unlikely to benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help people with overweight or obesity reduce cue-driven cravings and improve control over eating, supporting weight management.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier small studies using real-time fMRI feedback have reduced food- and drug-cue brain activity and cravings, but using connectome-based whole-brain feedback tied to eating behavior is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Garrison, Kathleen a. — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Garrison, Kathleen a.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.