A study from UC San Diego suggests that 'regulation of cues' therapy may be more effective than traditional CBT in reducing binge eating and promoting weight loss among veterans, by helping individuals better recognize hunger signals and resist emotional cravings.
A new study published in Neuron reveals that chronic stress can lead to increased consumption of high-calorie, sweet foods by overriding the brain's natural reward system, particularly affecting the lateral habenula. This can result in weight gain and obesity, as stress diminishes the brain's ability to regulate satiety. Researchers found that blocking the stress-related molecule NPY in mice reduced their preference for comfort foods. Experts suggest mindful eating as a strategy to combat stress-induced unhealthy eating habits.
A study from Drexel University's WELL Center found that over 23% of individuals seeking treatment for binge eating reported recent cannabis use, indicating a potential link between substance use and eating disorders. Despite higher alcohol consumption among cannabis users, there was no significant increase in the severity of eating disorder or depression symptoms. The research emphasizes the need for clinicians to screen for cannabis and alcohol use in patients with binge eating disorders to better understand and treat the condition's complexities, highlighting the interplay between substance use, appetite, mood, and eating behaviors.
Psychiatrist and neuroscientist Judson Brewer suggests using mindful eating to break the cycle of binge eating and curb cravings. Mindful eating involves focusing on the present moment and understanding the reasons behind food cravings. Brewer recommends mapping out eating patterns, changing the brain's perception of food rewards, and finding healthier alternatives to break the habit loop. By reconnecting with the body and listening to its cues, individuals can conquer cravings and end unhealthy eating habits.
Lana Rodriguez lost 30 pounds in four months after taking semaglutide, a weight loss drug that suppresses appetite. Semaglutide is usually taken as a weekly injection and was originally a diabetes medication but was FDA-approved to treat obesity in 2021. Rodriguez no longer eats for comfort and no longer craves things she used to, like Sprite or alcohol. Side effects of semaglutide include bloating, nausea, and stomach cramps. Rodriguez pays $200 per shot and hopes to gradually reduce the frequency of her doses further, going down to once every three weeks then hopefully four.
Lana Rodriguez, who struggled with binge eating for seven years, lost 30 pounds in four months after taking semaglutide, a weight loss drug that suppresses appetite. Semaglutide, which originated as a diabetes medication, was FDA-approved to treat obesity in 2021. Rodriguez no longer eats for comfort and no longer craves things she used to, like Sprite or alcohol. Side effects of semaglutide include bloating, nausea, and stomach cramps. Rodriguez pays $200 per shot and hopes to gradually reduce the frequency of her doses further, going down to once every three weeks then hopefully four — provided she can maintain her weight.