Skip to main content

FoodSteps Food Access Study

foodsteps study logo

Are you struggling with binge eating and diabetes? Adult volunteers with type 2 diabetes who have difficulty accessing food are invited to participate in a remote Northwestern research study. The study is recruiting people who struggle with binge eating to participate in testing a mobile web app called FoodSteps. Take the screener to find out if you are eligible for the study. If you are, a research team member will reach out to you.

Take the Study Screener 

What Is FoodSteps?

A 16-week, evidence-based program to reduce binge eating and empower healthier eating behaviors with support from a personal health coach. Through the app, you can:

  • Learn behavior change strategies
  • Set personalized goals
  • Track and view your progress
  • Access resources

 Screenshot of Foodsteps app displayed on a phone

FoodSteps was designed at Northwestern University with input from over 300 people looking to improve their health – just like you.

A collage of images of people working on their health through exercise, healthy eating

Am I Eligible?

  • Experience binge eating
  • Have type 2 diabetes
  • Experience difficulty accessing food
  • Interested in reducing binge eating and losing weight
  • Willing to use a mobile app with coaching
  • Have a smartphone and email address
  • English-speaking, non-pregnant adult (18+) living in the U.S.
What is binge eating? 
  • Eating an unusually large amount of food in one sitting
  • Feeling a "loss of control" or like you can't stop eating

These binges...

  • Lead you to feel upset or distressed
  • Repeat often (at least once a week)

How Can I Join a Study?

  • Screen: Fill out and submit our screener to see if you’re potentially eligible
  • Assess: Complete the eligibility assessment of interviews and surveys 
  • Join: Accept your invitation to join our study!

What Happens If I Join a Study?

  • You will receive: 
    • Free access to the app website
    • 16 weeks of support from your personal health coach
    • A new electronic scale (yours to keep!)
    • A $10 weekly stipend
  • You will be asked to: 
    • Complete 2 interviews & 3 surveys, and earn up to $90
    • Weigh yourself weekly
    • Use the app & chat with your coach as much as you like

Contact Us

If you have questions, please reach out to our research team at chidiebere.azubuike@northwestern.edu or 312-503-5342.

Study Name: Evaluating a Digital Intervention for Binge Eating and Weight Management among Adults with Food Insecurity
IRB #: STU00219612
PI: Andrea Graham, PhD

Follow CBITs on Instagram