Using future thinking to help with weight loss

Adapting Episodic Future Thinking for Behavioral Weight Loss: Comparing Strategies and Characterizing Treatment Response

['FUNDING_R01'] · MIRIAM HOSPITAL · NIH-10690703

This study is exploring how thinking about your future can help you lose weight and keep it off, by comparing different ways to motivate you—either by focusing on the good things that come from healthy choices or the bad things that can happen from unhealthy ones—so if you're looking to improve your eating and lifestyle habits, this research might be just for you!

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMIRIAM HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10690703 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how imagining future scenarios can aid individuals in achieving long-term weight loss goals. It compares different strategies that focus on either promoting positive outcomes or preventing negative consequences of unhealthy choices. By utilizing a behavioral weight loss program delivered online, participants will engage in exercises that help them visualize their future selves and the impact of their current decisions on their health. The study aims to determine which approach is more effective in encouraging healthier eating and lifestyle habits.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with obesity who are motivated to lose weight and improve their health.

Not a fit: Patients who are not interested in making lifestyle changes or who have conditions that prevent them from participating in a weight loss program may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new strategies for individuals struggling with obesity to achieve sustainable weight loss.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that similar cognitive strategies can effectively aid in weight loss, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

PROVIDENCE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.