Comparative efficacy of remotely delivered mindfulness-based eating awareness training versus behavioral-weight loss counseling during COVID-19.

Introduction: Dysregulated eating (emotional eating, cue-elicited eating, and dietary restraint and restriction) has been linked to being overweight or obese. The present investigation used a random controlled trial (RCT) to test the differential efficacy of remotely delivered Mindfulness-Based Eating Awareness Training (MB-EAT) and Behavioral Weight Loss (BWL) counseling. Methods: The sample was recruited through advertisements that offered help to people "with problems controlling their eating" or "interested in improving their relationship with food" (n = 135). Results: Retention was low in both groups (42%), but not dissimilar to retention rates reported in related clinical trials delivered "in person." Among the participants who completed treatment, we found no between-group differences in any of the treatment outcomes, but participants in both groups experienced significant increases in eating-related mindfulness [Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ) and awareness [Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness (MAIA), and significant decreases in unhealthy eating patterns [Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire (DEBQ); Binge Eating Scale (BES), and weight over the course of treatment. Participants in both groups also experienced increases in self-reported depression and anxiety symptoms [Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)], although these increases likely reflected normative changes observed in the population at large during COVID-19. Discussion: Overall, the results suggest that dysregulated eating and weight loss intervention delivered remotely via teleconference can be effective.

Mindfulness en el control del atracón, la perspectiva de un grupo de adultos chilenos / Mindfulness in the control of binge eating, the perspective of a Chilean adult group

Resumen Intervenciones basadas en mindfulness (atención plena [AP]) están siendo cada vez más utilizadas para tratar temas alimentarios, buscando mejorar la regulación emocional y la conciencia acerca de los estados internos (e.g., hambre, saciedad). El objetivo de este trabajo fue describir la percepción de la práctica de AP en el control de la conducta de atracón. Participaron siete adultos que presentaban conducta de atracón (20-52 años de edad), seis mujeres y un hombre. Como parte de este estudio, los participantes recibieron una intervención (taller) sobre AP y alimentación. Con base a un enfoque metodológico cualitativo, de alcance exploratorio y descriptivo, se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas pre-post intervención, las cuales fueron analizadas mediante codificación abierta. Antes de la intervención, los participantes sostenían una relación no consciente con la comida, presentando un modo de funcionar automático. Tras la intervención se reportaron cambios favorables, como el aumento de la conciencia y el reconocimiento cognitivo y emocional, lo cual supuso modificaciones en la conducta alimentaria. Los participantes realizaron una evaluación positiva del taller y del formato grupal, destacando que la AP fue interiorizada como una nueva herramienta para la vida diaria.

Abstract Interventions based on mindfulness are increasingly used for feeding issues, looking for an improvement in the emotional regulation and awareness of internal states (i.e., satiety, hunger). The objective of this paper was to describe the perception of mindfulness when controlling binge eating behavior. A total of seven adults with binge eating behavior (20-52 years old), six women and one men participated in the study. All participants receive a training (workshop) about mindfulness and feeding. Based on a qualitative methodological approach with exploratory and descriptive scope, semi-structured interviews were performed pre-post intervention and were analyzed by open coding. Before intervention participants had no awareness in their relationship with food showing an automatic response. After intervention participants reported favorable changes such as increased of awareness as well as cognitive and emotional recognition, which led to changes in eating behavior. The participants made a positive evaluation of the workshop and the group format, highlighting that mindfulness was internalized as a new tool for daily life.