Techniques for modifying impulsive processes associated with unhealthy eating: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Psychology
• Nutrition Science
• Health Psychology

Background:

• Impulsive eating behaviors contribute significantly to unhealthy dietary patterns.
• Managing impulsive processes is crucial for effective weight management interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and categorize techniques for modifying impulsive eating.
• To describe the mechanisms targeted by these impulse control techniques.
• To summarize evidence on the effectiveness of impulse management strategies for eating behavior.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of 5 bibliographic databases for studies since 1993.
• Extraction of data on study characteristics, interventions, mechanisms, and outcomes.
• Qualitative synthesis of effectiveness evidence without meta-analysis.

Main Results:

• Ninety-two studies evaluated 17 distinct impulse management techniques.
• Techniques were categorized by targeting impulse strength or engaging reflective processes.
• Visuospatial loading, physical activity, and if-then planning showed promise for reducing unhealthy food consumption and cravings in the short term.

Conclusions:

• A variety of techniques show potential for improving eating patterns in weight management.
• Further high-quality, large-scale, community-based research with longer follow-up is needed.
• Establishing long-term efficacy of impulse control techniques on eating behavior requires more robust evidence.