Real-time fMRI neurofeedback training to improve eating behavior by self-regulation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex: A randomized controlled trial in overweight and obese subjects

Publication date: Available online 21 February 2019Source: NeuroImageAuthor(s): Simon H. Kohl, Ralf Veit, Maartje S. Spetter, Astrid Günther, Andriani Rina, Michael Lührs, Niels Birbaumer, Hubert Preissl, Manfred HallschmidAbstractObesity is associated with altered responses to food stimuli in prefrontal brain networks that mediate inhibitory control of ingestive behavior. In particular, activity of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) is reduced in obese compared to normal-weight subjects and has been linked to the success of weight-loss dietary interventions. In a randomized controlled trial in overweight/obese subjects, we investigated the effect on eating behavior of volitional up-regulation of dlPFC activity via real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) neurofeedback training.Thirty-eight overweight or obese subjects (BMI 25–40 kg/m2) took part in fMRI neurofeedback training with the aim of increasing activity of the left dlPFC (dlPFC group; n = 17) or of the visual cortex (VC/control group; n = 21). Participants were blinded to group assignment. The training session took place on a single day and included three training runs of six trials of up-regulation and passive viewing. Food appraisal and snack intake were assessed at screening, after training, and in a follow-up session four weeks later.Participants of both groups succeeded in up-regulating activity of the targeted brain area. However, participants of the control group also showed...
Source: NeuroImage - Category: Neuroscience Source Type: research