Using brain stimulation to help manage emotional eating
The Use of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) to Reduce Emotional Eating in Tier 3 Obese Patients: A Randomised Controlled Feasibility Trial Protocol
This study is testing whether a type of brain stimulation can help people with obesity control their food cravings and emotional eating.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Nottingham Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Derby, Royal Derby Hospital Centre Uttoxeter Road) |
| Trial ID | NCT06488287 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research investigates the feasibility of a randomized control trial using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to manage food cravings and emotional eating in individuals with obesity. Participants will receive either real or sham tDCS over six sessions within three weeks, with a two-day interval between sessions to minimize side effects. The study aims to assess the impact of tDCS on appetite regulation, self-control, and reward processing, with follow-up assessments conducted for two weeks post-intervention.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 65 with obesity and a high score on an emotional eating survey.
Not a fit: Patients who are non-obese, have a history of major neurological disorders, or are pregnant may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a novel non-invasive treatment option for individuals struggling with emotional eating and obesity.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of tDCS for emotional eating is relatively novel, other studies have shown promise in using brain stimulation techniques for various psychological and behavioral conditions.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients with obesity in tier 3. * Capacity to consent to participate in research. * Adults aged 18 to 65 years old. * A high score in the emotional eating survey (minimum of 6 score in weight loss readiness questionnaire) (this will be taken from participant's medical note by usual care staff) Exclusion Criteria: * Non-obese patients (BMI\<25). * A history of epilepsy or other major neurological disorders * Having pacemakers or other metal implants. * No history of eating disorders or emotional eating. * Pregnant patients.
Where this trial is running
Derby, Royal Derby Hospital Centre Uttoxeter Road
- University of Nottingham — Derby, Royal Derby Hospital Centre Uttoxeter Road, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Iskandar Idris
- Email: mdzii@exmail.nottingham.ac.uk
- Phone: 01332 724710/724713
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.