Bulimia Research Study
Researchers at the University of Minnesota are conducting a study on brain and behavior in people with bulimia nervosa.
Fast Facts
Regularly binge eat and self-induce vomit 1+ times per week
History of psychosis, bipolar disorder, or neurological disorder and or injury
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
Twin Cities, MN
Study Background
This study is exploring how the brain responds when anticipating binge eating or purging in bulimia nervosa (BN).
Bulimia nervosa affects both emotional health and brain function. Researchers want to better understand how anticipating binge eating or purging influences brain activity and mood. This knowledge may reveal important mechanisms that keep BN symptoms going and point toward more effective treatments.
To do this, the study combines clinical interviews, computer-based tasks, and brain imaging. Participants will also complete short daily surveys on their phone after the lab sessions to provide insight into their experiences in everyday life.
Study Background
This study is exploring how the brain responds when anticipating binge eating or purging in bulimia nervosa (BN).
Bulimia nervosa affects both emotional health and brain function. Researchers want to better understand how anticipating binge eating or purging influences brain activity and mood. This knowledge may reveal important mechanisms that keep BN symptoms going and point toward more effective treatments.
To do this, the study combines clinical interviews, computer-based tasks, and brain imaging. Participants will also complete short daily surveys on their phone after the lab sessions to provide insight into their experiences in everyday life.
Additional Information
Researchers want to learn how brain activity and emotions are connected to binge eating and purging urges. This may help improve treatments for bulimia nervosa.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Regularly binge eat and self-induce vomit 1+ times per week
- If taking medications that affect mood, appetite or weight, on a stable dose for 6 weeks
- MRI eligible
- Currently medically and psychiatrically stable (no hospitalizations in the past 3 months)
- Right-handed
- Able to read and speak English
Exclusion Criteria:
- History of psychosis, bipolar disorder, or neurological disorder/injury
- Currently pregnant or lactating
- Current substance use disorder or thyroid disease
- Currently underweight
- Severe food allergies
- History of gastric bypass surgery
You will complete two study visits at the University of Minnesota.
Visit 1: Clinical interviews, questionnaires, and preparing for mood scenarios (can be done in person or remotely).
Visit 2: Brain imaging (fMRI) while completing computer-based tasks.
After Visit 2, participants with BN will complete 16 days of short daily surveys on their phones.
There is also an optional 10-minute phone interview at 6 months.
Participants receive $100 after Visit 2. Participants with BN who complete the 16-day daily survey period can earn an additional $100, plus a $50 bonus for high completion. Payments are made through a Greenphire ClinCard, and prorated payment is available if you do not complete all study procedures.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.