The effect for Japanese workers of a self-help computerized cognitive behaviour therapy program with a supplement...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Nutritional Science
• Digital Health

Background:

• Computerized cognitive behaviour therapy (CCBT) is a self-help tool for psychological issues.
• CCBT has shown moderate effectiveness for depression, insomnia, and anxiety.
• L-carnosine is a supplement ingredient explored for its potential health benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if a supplement drink containing L-carnosine enhances the effectiveness of CCBT.
• To assess the impact of CCBT and a CCBT-supplement drink combination on psychological well-being.

Main Methods:

• Eighty-seven participants were randomized into three groups: control, CCBT, and CCBT with supplement drink.
• Participants received a 6-week self-help CCBT program delivered via an e-learning system and guidebook.
• The CCBT with supplement drink group consumed a daily soft drink containing L-carnosine for 6 weeks.

Main Results:

• Significant time × group interactions were observed for POMS tension-anxiety and fatigue.
• The CCBT group demonstrated significant improvements in tension-anxiety scores.
• The CCBT with supplement drink group showed significant improvements in fatigue levels.

Conclusions:

• The self-help CCBT program effectively reduced subjective tension-anxiety in workers.
• Supplementing CCBT with a drink containing L-carnosine enhanced its effect on fatigue.
• This combination offers a potential strategy for improving the efficacy of CCBT programs.