Using brain feedback to help reduce cravings for unhealthy foods
Official title: Connectome-based neurofeedback of the craving network to reduce food cue-reactivity
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11063186 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how giving people real-time feedback about their brain activity can help them manage cravings for unhealthy foods, making it easier for them to make healthier eating choices.
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 start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $301,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136623-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11063186 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who struggle with cravings for unhealthy foods and are seeking to manage their weight.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience food cravings or who are not motivated to change their eating behaviors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how real-time brain feedback can help individuals manage their cravings for unhealthy foods. By using advanced brain imaging techniques, the study aims to provide participants with insights into their brain activity related to food cues, helping them to better control their responses to these triggers. The approach focuses on understanding and modifying the brain's craving network, which is linked to overeating and obesity. Participants will engage in sessions where they receive feedback on their brain activity, potentially leading to healthier eating behaviors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help patients reduce their cravings for unhealthy foods, leading to better weight management and overall health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using brain feedback techniques have shown promise in reducing cravings for both food and drugs, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Garrison, Kathleen a. — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Garrison, Kathleen a.
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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.