NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding eating problems in adults with functional dyspepsia

Official title: A Biobehavioral Approach to Understand Problematic Avoidant/Restrictive Eating in Adults with Functional Dyspepsia

Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10917137 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at the eating challenges faced by adults with functional dyspepsia to understand what makes it hard for them to eat and to test a new program that could help them enjoy a wider variety of foods again.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project startSeptember 13, 2021
Project endSeptember 28, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$199,472
NIH project number5K23DK131334-04
Project IDNIH-10917137 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have been diagnosed with functional dyspepsia and exhibit avoidant/restrictive eating behaviors.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have functional dyspepsia or those whose eating issues are unrelated to this condition may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the eating difficulties faced by adults with functional dyspepsia, a chronic gastrointestinal disorder. It aims to explore the biological and behavioral factors that contribute to avoidant/restrictive eating patterns in these patients. By comparing gastric functions and hormone levels among those with functional dyspepsia and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), healthy individuals, and those with functional dyspepsia without ARFID, the study seeks to identify potential treatment targets. Additionally, it will pilot a cognitive-behavioral intervention designed to help patients gradually increase their food intake and variety, addressing both the psychological and physiological aspects of their eating challenges.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for adults struggling with eating issues related to functional dyspepsia.

How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies have shown promise in addressing eating disorders through behavioral interventions.

Where this research is happening

  • Massachusetts General Hospital
    Boston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Burton Murray, Helen — Massachusetts General Hospital
  • Study coordinator: Burton Murray, Helen

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.