Interventions for reducing food cravings: A systematic literature review.

Introduction
Food cravings have been associated with several negative health consequences, including negative emotions such as guilt and shame, impaired cognition and early dropout from weight-loss programs. Of particular concern is that they can trigger binge eating episodes, which are a precursor to disordered eating and obesity. In response, researchers have developed and tested a range of interventions for reducing food cravings, but their comparative efficacy has not yet been reviewed.
Method
The aim of the present review was to systematically evaluate food craving reduction strategies, in order to identify the most effective techniques and conditions, and identify knowledge gaps to address in future research. Suitable publications were identified in a search of databases (Scopus, Ovid and Sage) conducted in January 2018. Eligible studies used human adult participants, used a technique to reduce food cravings, included a measure of food cravings, and a control or comparison condition. The final review included 40 publications comprising 49 individual studies.
Results
Results showed that imagery-based techniques most consistently reduced food cravings, followed by mindfulness-based techniques that were taught over several training sessions. Other techniques, such as cognitive reappraisal and physical activity, showed promise, but have not been widely researched.
Discussion
Many of the techniques successful in reducing cravings have the potential to be incorporated into daily life and clinical settings. In particular, imagery- and mindfulness-based interventions could be useful adjuncts to cognitive-behavioural therapy for tackling craving-driven problem eating.