Mindfulness-based Neurofeedback: A Systematic Review of EEG and fMRI studies.
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology – September 15, 2024
Source: PubMed
Summary
Mindfulness meditation combined with neurofeedback may enhance mental health by influencing brain activity. An analysis of 10 fMRI studies with 177 participants and 9 EEG studies with 242 participants revealed a notable focus on reducing default-mode network (DMN) activity. While fMRI studies showed decreased DMN activation, the lack of adequate controls raised questions about these findings. EEG research highlighted significant modulation of theta band activity, yet the overall mental health benefits of this approach remain unproven, warranting further rigorous investigation.
Abstract
Neurofeedback concurrent with mindfulness meditation may reveal meditation effects on the brain and facilitate improved mental health outcomes. Here, we systematically reviewed EEG and fMRI studies of mindfulness meditation with neurofeedback (mbNF) and followed PRISMA guidelines. We identified 10 fMRI reports, consisting of 177 unique participants, and 9 EEG reports, consisting of 242 participants. Studies of fMRI focused primarily on downregulating the default-mode network (DMN). Although studies found decreases in DMN activations during neurofeedback, there is a lack of evidence for transfer effects, and the majority of studies did not employ adequate controls, e.g. sham neurofeedback. Accordingly, DMN decreases may have been confounded by general task-related deactivation. EEG studies typically examined alpha, gamma, and theta frequency bands, with the most robust evidence supporting the modulation of theta band activity. Both EEG and fMRI mbNF have been implemented with high fidelity in clinical populations. However, the mental health benefits of mbNF have not been established. In general, mbNF studies would benefit from sham-controlled RCTs, as well as clear reporting (e.g. CRED-NF).