MINDOB: a computerized mindfulness-based intervention for obese individuals

Abstract

A growing interest is given to mindfulness-based interventions for healthy behaviours such as exercise and dietary. This study aims to test the efficacy of a mindfulness-based intervention among obese individuals. 120 outpatients, aged 18 to 55y, diagnosed with a binge-eating disorder, will be randomly assigned to one of the three following groups: mindfulness practice, sham meditation or wait-list. The tested intervention consists of a 1-year computerized mindfulness-based program. Mindfulness sessions are audio recordings that the patients are asked to listen to, 10 minutes every day. Questionnaires measuring impulsive eating, motivation to exercise, physical activity, mood, and mindfulness skills are filled in at baseline, 1, 6 and 12 months. Mindfulness, on the one hand as a de-automation element, and on the other as a moderator of motivation to exercise, can lead to the reduction of impulsive eating, and also to an increase of the level of physical activity. The aim of our study is to demonstrate the benefit of an self-monitored intervention as a complementary care for obese individuals with eating disorders.