Mindfulness and craving: effects and mechanisms.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Mindfulness meditation is traditionally used for managing cravings.
• Understanding the mechanisms behind mindfulness for craving management is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review experimental studies on mindfulness and cravings for substances like food, cigarettes, and alcohol.
• To interpret findings in the context of craving theories.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of 30 experimental studies.
• Analysis of different mindfulness practices and their effects on cravings.
• Interpretation of results based on elaborated intrusion theory and conditioning models.

Main Results:

• Mindfulness may offer immediate craving reduction via working memory load, similar to other cognitive strategies.
• Medium-term reductions may stem from response inhibition, where alternative strategies could be equally effective.
• Longer-term, repeated mindfulness practice shows tentative support for unique benefits in craving reduction and consumption control.

Conclusions:

• Immediate and medium-term craving reduction through mindfulness may not be unique.
• Long-term, consistent mindfulness practice shows promise for distinct advantages in managing cravings and preventing consumption.
• Further research is necessary to validate the unique long-term benefits of mindfulness for craving.