Can a brain zapping helmet help treat anorexia?

NCT ID NCT06624150

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This small, completed study tested whether a gentle brain stimulation technique called tDCS, combined with computer-based cognitive training, is safe and tolerable for adults with anorexia or atypical anorexia. One participant received either real or fake stimulation over 10 sessions. The goal was to see if people would stick with the treatment and if it might improve thinking flexibility. Because only one person took part, the results are very preliminary.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) via StarStim device

What this could lead to

If successful, this approach could point toward a new way to improve cognitive flexibility in people with anorexia, potentially making standard treatments more effective.

What could go wrong

This is a very early, tiny study (only 1 participant) focused on feasibility, not on proving the treatment works. Results may not apply to others, and the real benefit remains unknown.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anorexia nervosa Feeding and Eating Disorders

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Minnesota

    Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55414, United States