Mindfulness-based interventions for binge eating: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Mindfulness-based interventions are increasingly used to treat binge eating. The effects of these interventions have not been reviewed comprehensively. This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to summarize the literature on mindfulness-based interventions and determine their impact on binge eating behavior. PubMED, Web of Science, and PsycINFO were searched using keywords binge eating, overeating, objective bulimic episodes, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, meditation, mindful eating. Of 151 records screened, 19 studies met inclusion criteria. Most studies showed effects of large magnitude. Results of random effects meta-analyses supported large or medium-large effects of these interventions on binge eating (within-group random effects mean Hedge’s g = −1.12, 95 % CI −1.67, −0.80, k = 18; between-group mean Hedge’s g = −0.70, 95 % CI −1.16, −0.24, k = 7). However, there was high statistical heterogeneity among the studies (within-group I ² = 93 %; between-group I ² = 90 %). Limitations and future research directions are discussed.