Feasibility and preliminary outcomes of a Brief Online-Oriented Self-guided Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (BOOST) for binge eating disorder symptoms: an uncontrolled pilot pre-post study - 11/11/26

Highlights |
• | A 30-day self-guided CBT-E-informed program (BOOST) was feasible to deliver fully remotely. |
• | Among participants who started BOOST, 21/28 (75%) completed post-intervention measures. |
• | Preliminary improvements were observed in EDE-Q global score, shape/weight concerns, and self-esteem. |
• | No statistically significant changes were detected for BMI or depressive symptoms over 30 days. |
Abstract |
Background: Binge eating disorder (BED) is associated with significant psychological distress and comorbidity, and access to evidence-based psychotherapy remains limited in many settings.
Objective: This uncontrolled pilot pre-post study primarily evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of a 30-day Brief Online-Oriented Self-guided CBT-E program (BOOST), and secondarily explored pre-post changes in eating-disorder psychopathology, self-esteem, depressive symptoms, and BMI.
Methods: Adults with clinically significant binge eating symptoms (BES > = 18) completed an online screening questionnaire. Of 205 individuals screened, 53 were eligible, 28 started BOOST, and 21 completed baseline and post-intervention assessments (EDE-Q, RSE, BDI-II, BMI). BOOST content was delivered remotely via email and WhatsApp over 30 days. Acceptability was assessed using a 0–10 satisfaction rating.
Results: Among completers (n = 21), EDE-Q global score decreased (p = 0.012), as did shape concern (p = 0.011) and weight concern (p = 0.022); self-esteem increased (p = 0.013). No statistically significant changes were observed in dietary restraint, food concern, depressive symptoms (p = 0.190), or BMI (p = 0.660). Mean satisfaction was 6.7/10.
Conclusion: BOOST appeared feasible and acceptable as a brief, fully remote self-guided intervention. Findings suggest a preliminary signal of improvement in eating-disorder psychopathology and self-esteem over 30 days; controlled studies with diagnostic confirmation and longer follow-up are needed to establish efficacy.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Keywords : Binge eating disorder, Enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy, Self-guided therapy, Eating disorders, Body image, Mental health
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Vol 36 - N° 4
Article 100598- novembre 2026 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.
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