Open-label placebos to reduce overeating in children

Research has shown that placebos (inert substances like sugar pills) can still provide beneficial effects even if people know they are taking them. The planned study uses a non-deceptive placebo approach to reduce appetite and overeating in overweight children aged between 8 and 12 years. In Austria, almost one-third of all children are above the normal weight for their age and height, which is associated with health problems. The children will receive four weeks of daily placebo treatment. The placebo can be taken as needed when childrens appetite increases substantially. The children rate the intensity of their appetite and their emotions via a smartphone app. This app- assisted approach is applied to receive more detailed and continuous feedback throughout the placebo intervention. It is expected that the placebo will help the children to reduce their appetite and to control the amount of food that they eat when compared to four weeks with no placebo treatment (eating as usual).