Improving eating behaviors in obesity through implicit priming

Neuronal and behavioral effects of an implicit priming approach to improve eating behaviors in obesity

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11001520

This study is exploring a fun way to help people with obesity by showing them positive or negative images before they see food pictures, which might change how they think about food and help them crave healthier options instead of high-calorie treats.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11001520 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how an implicit priming approach can change the way individuals respond to food, particularly in those struggling with obesity. By using a method where positive or negative images are shown just before food images, the study aims to alter unconscious associations with food. This could help reduce cravings for high-calorie foods and support weight loss efforts. The research focuses on understanding the brain's response to these stimuli and how it affects eating behaviors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults who are struggling with obesity and have difficulty managing their eating behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or obese may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for effective weight loss and maintenance in individuals with obesity.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using behavioral conditioning techniques to influence eating behaviors, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.