Effects of Self-Conditioning Techniques (Self-Hypnosis) in Promoting Weight Loss in Patients with Severe Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Objective: The usefulness of the rapid-induction techniques of hypnosis as an adjunctive weight-loss treatment has not been defined. This randomized controlled trial evaluated whether self-conditioning techniques (self-hypnosis) added to lifestyle interventions contributed to weight loss (primary outcome), changes in metabolic and inflammatory variables, and quality of life (QoL) improvement (secondary outcomes) in severe obesity. Methods: Individuals (with BMI = 35-50 kg/m2) without organic or psychiatric comorbidity were randomly assigned to the intervention (n = 60) or control arm (n = 60). All received exercise and behavioral recommendations and individualized diets. The intervention consisted of three hypnosis sessions, during which self-hypnosis was taught to increase self-control before eating. Diet, exercise, satiety, QoL, anthropometric measurements, and blood variables were collected and measured at enrollment and at 1 year (trial end). Results: A similar weight loss was observed in the intervention (−6.5 kg) and control (−5.6 kg) arms (β = −0.45; 95% CI: −3.78 to 2.88; P = 0.79). However, habitual hypnosis users lost more weight (−9.6 kg; β = −10.2; 95% CI: −14.2 to −6.18; P < 0.001) and greatly reduced their caloric intake (−682.5 kcal; β = −643.6; 95% CI: −1064.0 to −223.2; P = 0.005) in linear regression models. At trial end, the intervention arm showed lower C-reactive protein values (β = −2.55; 95% CI: −3.80 to −1.31; P < 0.001), higher satiety (β = 19.2; 95% CI: 7.71-30.6; P = 0.001), and better QoL (β = 0.09; 95% CI: 0.02-0.16; P = 0.01). Conclusions: Self-hypnosis was not associated with differences in weight change but was associated with improved satiety, QoL, and inflammation. Indeed, habitual hypnosis users showed a greater weight loss.