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Mindfulness-based nutrition therapy for self-regulation in obesity treatment

A pilot study explores whether mindfulness-based group therapy for obesity improves emotional eating, strengthens the relationship with food, enhances therapy satisfaction, and reduces self-stigmatization.

Factsheet

Situation

Obesity represents a significant challenge, often accompanied by physical and emotional burdens. Traditional approaches such as calorie reduction and increased physical activity often prove unsustainable. Many individuals experience frustration, relapses, and guilt, exacerbated by self-stigmatization. Innovative treatments, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1-RA), offer new possibilities for weight reduction. GLP-1-RA medications could provide a "window of opportunity" by reducing physiological hunger signals, allowing emotional triggers for eating behaviors to be addressed more effectively. Combining these medications with mindfulness-based interventions could offer a more sustainable solution for managing emotional eating and achieving long-term weight control. Mindfulness can help individuals identify and regulate emotional triggers for eating, improving not only overeating behaviors but also reducing obesity-related stigma and negative self-perception.

Course of action

This pilot study supported by the Foundation Sanitas Krankenversicherung examines the feasibility of a new nutrition therapy intervention incorporating mindfulness. Forty adults with obesity who are undergoing GLP-1-RA therapy will be divided into two groups: one receiving standard therapy and the other receiving an additional mindfulness intervention. The intervention is grounded in cutting-edge scientific insights from mindfulness, behavior change, life design, body-centered therapy, and systems thinking. Participants will engage in a 16-week program, including nine in-person sessions supplemented by daily mindfulness exercises (30 minutes) and regular journaling. A unique feature of the program is four tandem meetings where participants connect in pairs online for mutual support. Digital tools are also provided to facilitate transformation. The program is designed to positively influence not only eating behaviors but also participants’ relationship with themselves. The study aims to evaluate the feasibility of the intervention and its effects on emotional eating, eating habits, stress management, and quality of life. Data will be collected at the start, end, and 12 months after the study.

Result

The pilot study evaluates the feasibility of the new intervention and its effects on eating behavior, self-regulation, and self-stigmatization. It focuses on the participants’ experience of the therapy over time and examines changes in emotional eating patterns. Additionally, the study investigates whether the intervention improves participants' quality of life and overall well-being.

Looking ahead

If the new intervention proves feasible and effective, it could play a significant role in the sustainable treatment of obesity. The findings could serve as a foundation for larger-scale studies to further explore mindfulness-based interventions in obesity care and establish long-term strategies for fostering healthy eating behaviors, supporting individuals on their journey.

Contact

Prof. Dr. Leonie-Helen Bogl

  • Dozentin
  • +41 31 848 47 12
  • Show e-mail
Adipositas_Sitzkreis
Adipositas_Sitzkreis

This project contributes to the following SDGs

  • 3: Good health and well-being