Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Impulsivity and Food-related Impulsivity in Obesity

Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) Applied Over the Orbitofrontal Cortex on Impulsivity and Decision Making in Obese Subjects

In this study the investigators aim to assess whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS; a safe non-invasive method for modulating the activity of specific brain regions) when applied over the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) is able to modulate impulsivity in obese participants.

In this single-blind, sham controlled study, the investigators will assess whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS; a safe non-invasive method for modulating the activity of specific brain regions) when applied over the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) is able to modulate impulsivity in obese volunteers. The investigators hypothesize that tDCS applied to the OFC, in comparison to sham tDCS, will significantly reduce impulsivity and enhance decision making as measured by computerized neurocognitive tasks. For this study the investigators will enroll 30 obese individuals aged 18-65 years. Participants will be assessed with a battery of computerized tasks as well as self-reported questionnaires on eating, impulsivity, mood and anxiety. Assessments will be carried out before, during, and after a single 20-minute 2mA tDCS session.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men or Women aged 18 to 65
• have body mass index of 35 or above
• have had no recent change in medications in the 2 weeks prior participating in the study
• able to fast for 4 hours prior participating in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Active Substance use disorder
• Active Suicidal ideation
• Psychoactive Medication
• Past or current Gambling disorder
• Past or current Anorexia
• Past or current Bulimia Nervosa
• Past or current Psychosis
• Visual impairments preventing performance of the neuropsychological tasks
• Epilepsy
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Stroke
• Neurological disorder affecting motor functions (Parkinsons, Huntington's, etc)
• Previous participation in tDCS research/treatment