Exploring the Metacognitive Hub Model of Craving in Eating Disorders

Pilot Study on the Validity of the Metacognitive Hub Model of Craving in Bulimia Nervosa (BN) and Binge Eating Disorders (BED)

Laval University · NCT05879679

This study is testing how cravings for food affect people with bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorders to better understand their eating behaviors and improve treatment options.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexFemale
SponsorLaval University (other)
Locations3 sites (Québec and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05879679 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the validity of the metacognitive hub model of craving in individuals diagnosed with bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorders. It aims to understand how craving, defined as an intense urge to consume food, interacts with cognitive processes through a framework that includes reflexive, automatic, and interoceptive systems. Participants will undergo food craving induction to assess their metacognitive abilities and how these relate to their eating behaviors. The study seeks to clarify the underlying mechanisms of craving in these disorders, which may inform future treatment approaches.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals who have been medically diagnosed with bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder and are fluent in French.

Not a fit: Patients with co-morbid substance use disorders or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of craving mechanisms in eating disorders, leading to improved therapeutic strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While the metacognitive hub model is a novel approach, similar studies exploring craving in eating disorders have shown promising results.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* have been medically diagnosed with binge eating disorder or bulimia nervosa
* fluent in french
* able to consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* co-morbid substance use disorder,
* pregnancy or breastfeeding

Where this trial is running

Québec and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Bulimia Nervosa, Binge-Eating Disorder, craving, addiction, metacognition, neurocognition

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.