A Web‐based Binge Eating Disorder Intervention Program Reduced Eating Disorder Risks in Overweight or Obese Females–A Pilot Study

Abstract

ObjectiveThose who suffer from eating disorders including Binge Eating Disorder (BED) face many hurdles including lack of access to treatment, guilt, denial, lack of motivation to change, and shame. The fear of stigmatization can also prevent those who suffer from eating disorders from seeking proper treatment. Web‐based treatment programs present an opportunity to eliminate or reduce some of these hurdles and resistance to treatment. The current Randomized Controlled Trial aimed to assess the efficacy of a web‐based outpatient treatment program in overweight and obese females diagnosed with BED.MethodsA total of 18 overweight or obese women with clinical or sub‐clinical binge eating disorder, aged 20–73, were randomized into either a face‐to‐face treatment program or a web‐based treatment program. Twelve participants completed the study. In face‐to‐face group (n=8), participants received a total 12 session counseling including an individual biweekly session with a psychotherapist and biweekly session with a Registered Dietitian (RD) specializing in eating disorders. In the web‐based group (n=4), participants received a 12‐session weekly video counseling through an online telemedicine software with psychotherapist and RD. Outcomes were assessed at 3 months including weight, binge episode (BE), and Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) questionnaire that assess eating disorder risks.ResultsIn the end of study, there were no differences in weight change and binge episodes change between two treatment groups. When comparing before and after treatment, participants did not lose weight in both groups. Participants in Face‐to‐face group reduced binge episodes (P<0.01) but not in web‐based group. Better improvements were observed in web‐based group for EDE shape concern (p=0.01), weight concern (p<0.05), and global score (p<0.05) than face‐to‐face group.ConclusionWeb‐based treatment program could potentially be an effective approach for binge eating disorder patients. Large scale randomized clinical trials are warranted to further assess the efficacy of web‐based approaches in treating eating disorders.Support or Funding InformationUs Women and Girls' Health Endowed Research Professorship; Complimantory telemedicine software from Fruit Street Company