MEpedia - User contributions [en]

Gupta program

2026-04-27T20:32:58Z

Anushka1989!:References and studies added

The Gupta Program or Gupta Programme, also referred to as Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR), describes itself as a program incorporating “brain retraining, mindfulness, breathwork, and somatic practices” aimed at “calming the limbic system, strengthening inhibitory feedback from the prefrontal cortex, rebuilding emotional and physiological safety, and supporting the nervous and immune systems in rebalancing” with the aim of supporting recovery from chronic conditions including ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia, and Long Covid.'''[https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10886399/ 1] [https://guptaprogram.b-cdn.net/files/research/2020-neuroinflammatory-model-mecfs-jclinmed.pdf 2] [https://guptaprogram.b-cdn.net/files/research/2025-amygdala-retraining-fibromyalgia-rct.pdf 3] [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2023/7068326 4]'''

The program is based on a hypothesis proposing that dysfunction in the amygdala and insula contributes to chronic fatigue syndrome.[https://guptaprogram.b-cdn.net/files/research/2002-cfs-hypothesis-article.pdf 5] This hypothesis was published in a peer-reviewed journal as a theoretical model but has not been widely validated and has received limited attention in mainstream research. Seven peer-reviewed studies on the program and related approaches have been published, however, these have primarily relied on self-reported outcomes and limited sample sizes, and there is currently no direct evidence demonstrating changes in brain activity or established biological mechanisms. [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10886399/ 1] [https://guptaprogram.b-cdn.net/files/research/2020-neuroinflammatory-model-mecfs-jclinmed.pdf 2] [https://guptaprogram.b-cdn.net/files/research/2025-amygdala-retraining-fibromyalgia-rct.pdf 3] [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2023/7068326 4] [https://www.aimspress.com/article/id/670f2202ba35de7eae90785d 5]

In 2018, the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) upheld a complaint that the Gupta Program made unproven advertising claims, including claims that it could treat conditions such as fibromyalgia, electromagnetic sensitivities, and ME/CFS. [https://www.asa.org.uk/rulings/harley-street-solutions-ltd-a17-400324.html 6] As of 2026, the program’s website no longer describes the intervention as a treatment for these conditions, instead presenting it as a program intended to support recovery and symptom management.

===Alternative names===
Other names used for the Gupta Program include:
* Amygdala Retraining Techniques '''[https://growthzonesitesprod.azureedge.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/1869/2020/10/IACFSME-2016-Program.pdf] 1]'''
* Amygdala Retraining Program (ARP)
* Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR)
* Gupta Amygdala Retraining
* Gupta Programme
The randomized controlled trial of "Mindfulness-Based Program Plus Amygdala and Insula Retraining" (MAIR) involved using part of the Gupta Program but delivered face to face by a qualified psychologist and includes additional [[mindfulness]] for stress, plus "treatment as usual" (for example medication), but the trial did not show evidence of the effectiveness for the Gupta Program.<ref name="MAIR2020">{{Cite journal|title=Mindfulness-Based Program Plus Amygdala and Insula Retraining (MAIR) for the Treatment of Women with Fibromyalgia: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial|date=Oct 2020|url=https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/9/10/3246/htm|journal=Journal of Clinical Medicine|volume=9|issue=10|pages=3246|last=Sanabria-Mazo|first=Juan P.|authorlink=|last2=Montero-Marin|first2=Jesus|authorlink2=|last3=Feliu-Soler|first3=Albert|authorlink3=|last4=Gasión|first4=Virginia|authorlink4=|last5=Navarro-Gil|first5=Mayte|authorlink5=|last6=Morillo-Sarto|first6=Héctor|authorlink6=|last7=Colomer-Carbonell|first7=Ariadna|last8=Borràs|first8=Xavier|last9=Tops|first9=Mattie|last10=Luciano|first10=Juan V.|last11=García-Campayo|first11=Javier|language=en|doi=10.3390/jcm9103246|pmc=PMC7599726|pmid=33050630|access-date=|issn=2077-0383|quote=|via=}}</ref>

== Theory ==
The hypothesis underlying the Gupta Program proposes that chronic conditions such as ME/CFS arise from a maladaptive “threat response” involving the amygdala and insula. According to this model, an initial triggering event - such as infection, injury, or chronic psychological stress - leads these brain regions to become persistently overactive, resulting in a state of heightened threat detection and physiological arousal.[https://guptaprogram.com/how-your-condition-started/ 7]

The theory suggests that this sustained activation dysregulates multiple bodily systems, including the stress response, immune function, and energy metabolism, producing physical symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and cognitive dysfunction. Over time, the brain is proposed to become conditioned to interpret normal bodily sensations as threats, creating a self-reinforcing feedback loop in which symptoms perpetuate further neural activation.

The model further posits that predisposing factors such as genetic sensitivity, prior stress, or trauma may increase susceptibility to this process, but are not sufficient to cause illness without a triggering event.

The Gupta Program’s theoretical model has been described in narrative review literature that proposes dysregulation of the amygdala and insula as a mechanism underlying chronic fatigue syndrome and related conditions. [https://www.aimspress.com/article/id/670f2202ba35de7eae90785d 5] This literature presents the model as a hypothesis synthesizing existing findings in stress, interoception, and neuroinflammation research, rather than as an empirically validated explanation.

=== '''Content of the Gupta Program''' ===
The Gupta Program is a brain retraining, mindfulness, and holistic health program accessible via website and a mobile app marketed to people with ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia, and Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS). It contains 15 video-based modules.

The program includes breathing exercises, meditations, mindset insights, light yoga and stretching, somatic experiencing exercises, holistic health advice, laughter workshops, and brain retraining exercises including their seven-step brain retraining technique. The Gupta Program also provides shorter options for brain retraining.

The Gupta Program initially mails participants a floor chart and a workbook. There is a dedicated section on how to deal with "dips" and setbacks. Ashok Gupta recommends "doing your best and leaving the rest" if you are experiencing a "dip."

The program also gives advice on pacing, diet, sleep, posits that being in nature is essential to healing the body. The Gupta Program encourages members to not wait until they are in perfect health to engage in activities they love. The Gupta Program encourages pacing within one's energy level and to not go beyond one's energy boundaries.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://guptaprogram.com/how-to-pace/|title=ME/CFS And Fibro {{!}} The Gupta Program|last=Ashok|website=https://guptaprogram.com/|language=en-US|access-date=2024-06-03}}</ref> However, some have reported that the way they applied the Gupta Program resulted in them experiencing a "crash" and/or setback.

There are two modules on "parts" work. The Gupta Program posits that there are sub-personalities that are trying to protect us or stimulate the nervous system with stress, including the "achiever," "perfectionist," or the "protector", and encourages participants to imagine them as beings, shapes, or colors. He discusses why we develop these "parts," and how we one work with them as if they were friends and even find value in what they can teach.

The Gupta Program features meditation, acceptance, pacing, diet, mindfulness, and sleep hygiene as well. The program points participants to other possible areas to explore such as trauma healing.

==Evidence ==
Most available evidence for the Gupta Program consists of patient-reported outcomes, such as self-reported symptom changes following use of the program. Seven peer-reviewed studies have been published which consist of five randomized controlled trials and two clinical audits. These data are subject to limitations, including self-selection bias, and reliance on subjective outcome measures.

===Amygdala and insula activity hypothesis ===
The Gupta Program is based on a hypothesis that chronic conditions such as ME/CFS and fibromyalgia are associated with dysfunctional activity in the amygdala and insula. This hypothesis was originally proposed in theoretical literature but has not been supported by robust empirical evidence and has not been widely adopted in mainstream research. '''[https://www.aimspress.com/article/id/670f2202ba35de7eae90785d 5]'''

=== Neurobiological evidence ===
No studies to date have directly demonstrated that participation in the Gupta Program leads to changes in amygdala or insula activity. While brain imaging research in related fields has shown that psychological and behavioral interventions can influence neural activity in these regions, such findings have not been specifically established for the Gupta Program. '''[https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006322320321077 8]'''

==Notable studies ==
'''Two non-pharmacological interventions, amygdala and insula retraining (AIR) and physical activity, are both significantly more effective than standard medication in improving symptoms of Fibromyalgia (Apr 2025) [https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12144-025-07808-w 9]'''

This randomized controlled trial evaluated Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR) as part of a structured intervention for individuals with fibromyalgia. Participants were assigned to either an AIR-based program or a control condition, and outcomes were assessed using self-reported measures of fibromyalgia symptom severity, including pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and associated functional impairment.

The study reported statistically significant improvements in the AIR group compared with the control group across several self-reported outcome measures, including reductions in fibromyalgia impact scores, pain-related cognitions, and depressive symptoms. Improvements were also reported in perceived sleep quality and cognitive functioning.

The authors described the findings as indicating potential clinical benefit but noted the need for further research, including larger and independently replicated randomized controlled trials.

'''Neuroplasticity Intervention, Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR), Significantly Improves Overall Health and Functioning Across Various Chronic Conditions (Dec 2023) [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10886399/ 1]'''

This study evaluated self-reported outcomes from individuals who had participated in the Gupta Program across a range of chronic conditions, including ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, and long COVID. Participants reported improvements in symptom severity and quality of life measures following engagement with the program.

The study design was observational, with no control group and reliance on self-selected participants who had completed the program. Outcomes were based entirely on self-report, and the authors acknowledged limitations including potential selection bias and lack of objective clinical or physiological measures.

'''Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR) Significantly Reduces Fatigue and Increases Energy in People with Long COVID (Jul 2023) [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2023/7068326 4]'''

This randomized controlled trial evaluated Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR) in individuals with long COVID, with fatigue as the primary outcome. Participants were assigned to either an AIR-based intervention or a control condition, and outcomes were assessed using self-reported symptom scales measuring fatigue, energy levels, and related functional impairment.

The study reported statistically significant improvements in fatigue and increases in self-reported energy in the AIR group compared with controls at post-intervention and follow-up timepoints. Secondary outcomes also included improvements in quality-of-life and related symptom measures. The authors noted that the findings suggest potential benefit but emphasized the exploratory nature of the study and the need for larger, independently replicated trials.

As with other studies in this area, outcomes were primarily based on self-reported measures, and no objective biomarkers or neuroimaging outcomes were included to assess proposed mechanisms of action.

'''Mindfulness-Based Program Plus Amygdala and Insula Retraining (MAIR) for the Treatment of Women with Fibromyalgia: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (Oct 2020) [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7599726/ 10]'''

This randomized controlled pilot trial evaluated a combined intervention consisting of mindfulness training plus Amygdala and Insula Retraining (MAIR), compared with an active control group receiving relaxation therapy alongside treatment as usual. The study included patients with fibromyalgia and assessed outcomes across symptom severity, psychological variables, and select biological markers.

Results reported greater improvements in self-reported pain, functional impairment, anxiety, and depression in the MAIR group compared with the control group at post-treatment and follow-up. The study also reported changes in some biomarkers (including reductions in brain-derived neurotrophic factor), although no consistent effects were observed across inflammatory markers. The intervention combined multiple components, making it difficult to isolate the specific contribution of the Gupta/AIR elements.

'''A Mind-Body Technique for Symptoms Related to Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue (Mar/Apr 2012) [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1550830711003405 11]'''

This single-blind randomized controlled pilot trial evaluated a mind–body intervention based on Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR) in patients with fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or both. Participants were recruited from a tertiary care clinic and randomly assigned to either AIR plus standard care or standard care alone.

The AIR intervention consisted of a short structured training session based on techniques adapted from an existing amygdala retraining program, delivered in addition to standard multidisciplinary care. Standard care included conventional clinical management within a specialist clinic setting.

Out of 44 randomized participants who completed baseline assessments, 21 completed the study (14 in the standard care group and 7 in the AIR group). Attrition was substantial in both groups, with participants either withdrawing, not completing baseline measures, or not completing follow-up assessments.

The study reported statistically significant improvements in self-reported measures of physical health, fatigue, pain, and symptom distress in the AIR group compared with standard care. Outcomes were based on validated self-report questionnaires, including measures of fatigue, pain, sleep disturbance, and overall health status. The study did not include objective biomarkers or neuroimaging outcomes.

The authors noted limitations including small sample size, lack of a full placebo control, and potential confounding factors such as concurrent treatments and participant motivation.

'''Can amygdala retraining techniques improve the well-being of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome: A clinical audit of subjective outcomes in a small sample (Sep 2010) [https://web.archive.org/web/20111119095503/http://www.guptaprogramme.com/Amygdala_Retraining_JHH_Sept_2010.pdf 12]'''
:This article reports a clinical audit of Amygdala Retraining Techniques (ART), an early form of the Gupta Program, in individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome. Participants undertook the intervention and were followed over approximately one year, with outcomes assessed using self-reported measures of functional ability and symptom change. The audit reported that a majority of participants described improvements in symptoms and functioning following the intervention, with a subset reporting substantial recovery. However, the study design did not include a control group, randomization, or standardized comparison with other treatments. Outcomes were based entirely on self-reported measures, and a proportion of participants did not complete follow-up. The audit was presented as a preliminary investigation intended to describe clinical observations and generate hypotheses for further research, rather than to establish efficacy.

== Conflicts of interest ==
Several publications related to the Gupta Program report professional or financial relationships between authors and the program. For example, one investigator in a randomized controlled trial has been reported to work as a Gupta Program coach, and one author of a theoretical model paper has a consulting relationship with the program through a research consultancy company. These relationships may represent potential conflicts of interest depending on study context and disclosure practices

===Articles not peer reviewed or from non-academic journals===
Included as part of Notable Studies above.

==Personal experiences==
* 2009, [http://web.archive.org/web/20090405173658/http://www.phoenix-cfs.org/BlogAmygdalaTraining1.htm Amygdala Training part 1 Blog] - Cort Johnson (archived)
* 2012, [https://phoenixrising.me/myalgic-encephalomyelitis-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-mecfs-treatments/mind-body/amygdala-retraining/a-psychotherapist-reviews-ashtok-guptas-amygdala-retraining-program-by-tamara-lewis/ A Psychotherapist Reviews Ashok Gupta’s Amygdala Retraining Program] – Tamara Lewis
* 2010, [https://cfs-survivors.org/blog/2010/07/11/just-passed-six-months-on-the-gupta-programme/ Just passed six months on the Gupta programme] - Graham Stoney

==See also ==
*[[Criticisms of The Gupta Program]]
*[[Ashok Gupta]]
*[[Brain retraining]]
*[[Pseudoscience]]
*[[Mindfulness]]

==Learn more ==
* 2018, [https://www.asa.org.uk/rulings/harley-street-solutions-ltd-a17-400324.html Advertising Standards Association complaint result]
* 2009, [https://web.archive.org/web/20210422023328/https://www.prohealth.com/library/qa-session-with-ashok-gupta-developer-of-the-amygdala-retraining-program-for-me-cfs-and-fm-held-july-10-2009-26402 Q&A Session with Ashok Gupta developer of Amygdala Retraining Program for ME/CFS, FM] - ProHealth (archived)

==References ==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Psychological paradigm]]
[[Category:Psychological and behavioral therapies]]
[[Category:Potential treatments]]
[[Category:Brain training]]

Gupta program

2026-04-27T20:28:35Z

Anushka1989!:

The Gupta Program or Gupta Programme, also referred to as Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR), describes itself as a program incorporating “brain retraining, mindfulness, breathwork, and somatic practices” aimed at “calming the limbic system, strengthening inhibitory feedback from the prefrontal cortex, rebuilding emotional and physiological safety, and supporting the nervous and immune systems in rebalancing” with the aim of supporting recovery from chronic conditions including ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia, and Long Covid.'''[https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10886399/ 1] [https://guptaprogram.b-cdn.net/files/research/2020-neuroinflammatory-model-mecfs-jclinmed.pdf 2] [https://guptaprogram.b-cdn.net/files/research/2025-amygdala-retraining-fibromyalgia-rct.pdf 3] [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2023/7068326 4]'''

The program is based on a hypothesis proposing that dysfunction in the amygdala and insula contributes to chronic fatigue syndrome.[https://guptaprogram.b-cdn.net/files/research/2002-cfs-hypothesis-article.pdf 5] This hypothesis was published in a peer-reviewed journal as a theoretical model but has not been widely validated and has received limited attention in mainstream research. Seven peer-reviewed studies on the program and related approaches have been published, however, these have primarily relied on self-reported outcomes and limited sample sizes, and there is currently no direct evidence demonstrating changes in brain activity or established biological mechanisms. [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10886399/ 1] [https://guptaprogram.b-cdn.net/files/research/2020-neuroinflammatory-model-mecfs-jclinmed.pdf 2] [https://guptaprogram.b-cdn.net/files/research/2025-amygdala-retraining-fibromyalgia-rct.pdf 3] [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2023/7068326 4] [https://www.aimspress.com/article/id/670f2202ba35de7eae90785d 5]

In 2018, the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) upheld a complaint that the Gupta Program made unproven advertising claims, including claims that it could treat conditions such as fibromyalgia, electromagnetic sensitivities, and ME/CFS. [https://www.asa.org.uk/rulings/harley-street-solutions-ltd-a17-400324.html 6] As of 2026, the program’s website no longer describes the intervention as a treatment for these conditions, instead presenting it as a program intended to support recovery and symptom management.

===Alternative names===
Other names used for the Gupta Program include:
* Amygdala Retraining Techniques '''[https://growthzonesitesprod.azureedge.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/1869/2020/10/IACFSME-2016-Program.pdf] 1]'''
* Amygdala Retraining Program (ARP)
* Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR)
* Gupta Amygdala Retraining
* Gupta Programme
The randomized controlled trial of "Mindfulness-Based Program Plus Amygdala and Insula Retraining" (MAIR) involved using part of the Gupta Program but delivered face to face by a qualified psychologist and includes additional [[mindfulness]] for stress, plus "treatment as usual" (for example medication), but the trial did not show evidence of the effectiveness for the Gupta Program.<ref name="MAIR2020">{{Cite journal|title=Mindfulness-Based Program Plus Amygdala and Insula Retraining (MAIR) for the Treatment of Women with Fibromyalgia: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial|date=Oct 2020|url=https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/9/10/3246/htm|journal=Journal of Clinical Medicine|volume=9|issue=10|pages=3246|last=Sanabria-Mazo|first=Juan P.|authorlink=|last2=Montero-Marin|first2=Jesus|authorlink2=|last3=Feliu-Soler|first3=Albert|authorlink3=|last4=Gasión|first4=Virginia|authorlink4=|last5=Navarro-Gil|first5=Mayte|authorlink5=|last6=Morillo-Sarto|first6=Héctor|authorlink6=|last7=Colomer-Carbonell|first7=Ariadna|last8=Borràs|first8=Xavier|last9=Tops|first9=Mattie|last10=Luciano|first10=Juan V.|last11=García-Campayo|first11=Javier|language=en|doi=10.3390/jcm9103246|pmc=PMC7599726|pmid=33050630|access-date=|issn=2077-0383|quote=|via=}}</ref>

== Theory ==
The hypothesis underlying the Gupta Program proposes that chronic conditions such as ME/CFS arise from a maladaptive “threat response” involving the amygdala and insula. According to this model, an initial triggering event - such as infection, injury, or chronic psychological stress - leads these brain regions to become persistently overactive, resulting in a state of heightened threat detection and physiological arousal.[https://guptaprogram.com/how-your-condition-started/ 7]

The theory suggests that this sustained activation dysregulates multiple bodily systems, including the stress response, immune function, and energy metabolism, producing physical symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and cognitive dysfunction. Over time, the brain is proposed to become conditioned to interpret normal bodily sensations as threats, creating a self-reinforcing feedback loop in which symptoms perpetuate further neural activation.

The model further posits that predisposing factors such as genetic sensitivity, prior stress, or trauma may increase susceptibility to this process, but are not sufficient to cause illness without a triggering event.

The Gupta Program’s theoretical model has been described in narrative review literature that proposes dysregulation of the amygdala and insula as a mechanism underlying chronic fatigue syndrome and related conditions. [https://www.aimspress.com/article/id/670f2202ba35de7eae90785d 5] This literature presents the model as a hypothesis synthesizing existing findings in stress, interoception, and neuroinflammation research, rather than as an empirically validated explanation.

=== '''Content of the Gupta Program''' ===
The Gupta Program is a brain retraining, mindfulness, and holistic health program accessible via website and a mobile app marketed to people with ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia, and Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS). It contains 15 video-based modules.

The program includes breathing exercises, meditations, mindset insights, light yoga and stretching, somatic experiencing exercises, holistic health advice, laughter workshops, and brain retraining exercises including their seven-step brain retraining technique. The Gupta Program also provides shorter options for brain retraining.

The Gupta Program initially mails participants a floor chart and a workbook. There is a dedicated section on how to deal with "dips" and setbacks. Ashok Gupta recommends "doing your best and leaving the rest" if you are experiencing a "dip."

The program also gives advice on pacing, diet, sleep, posits that being in nature is essential to healing the body. The Gupta Program encourages members to not wait until they are in perfect health to engage in activities they love. The Gupta Program encourages pacing within one's energy level and to not go beyond one's energy boundaries.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://guptaprogram.com/how-to-pace/|title=ME/CFS And Fibro {{!}} The Gupta Program|last=Ashok|website=https://guptaprogram.com/|language=en-US|access-date=2024-06-03}}</ref> However, some have reported that the way they applied the Gupta Program resulted in them experiencing a "crash" and/or setback.

There are two modules on "parts" work. The Gupta Program posits that there are sub-personalities that are trying to protect us or stimulate the nervous system with stress, including the "achiever," "perfectionist," or the "protector", and encourages participants to imagine them as beings, shapes, or colors. He discusses why we develop these "parts," and how we one work with them as if they were friends and even find value in what they can teach.

The Gupta Program features meditation, acceptance, pacing, diet, mindfulness, and sleep hygiene as well. The program points participants to other possible areas to explore such as trauma healing.

==Evidence ==
Most available evidence for the Gupta Program consists of patient-reported outcomes, such as self-reported symptom changes following use of the program. Seven peer-reviewed studies have been published which consist of five randomized controlled trials and two clinical audits. These data are subject to limitations, including self-selection bias, and reliance on subjective outcome measures.

===Amygdala and insula activity hypothesis ===
The Gupta Program is based on a hypothesis that chronic conditions such as ME/CFS and fibromyalgia are associated with dysfunctional activity in the amygdala and insula. This hypothesis was originally proposed in theoretical literature but has not been supported by robust empirical evidence and has not been widely adopted in mainstream research. '''[https://www.aimspress.com/article/id/670f2202ba35de7eae90785d 5]'''

=== Neurobiological evidence ===
No studies to date have directly demonstrated that participation in the Gupta Program leads to changes in amygdala or insula activity. While brain imaging research in related fields has shown that psychological and behavioral interventions can influence neural activity in these regions, such findings have not been specifically established for the Gupta Program. '''[https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006322320321077 8]'''

==Notable studies ==
'''Two non-pharmacological interventions, amygdala and insula retraining (AIR) and physical activity, are both significantly more effective than standard medication in improving symptoms of Fibromyalgia (Apr 2025) [https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12144-025-07808-w 9]'''

This randomized controlled trial evaluated Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR) as part of a structured intervention for individuals with fibromyalgia. Participants were assigned to either an AIR-based program or a control condition, and outcomes were assessed using self-reported measures of fibromyalgia symptom severity, including pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and associated functional impairment.

The study reported statistically significant improvements in the AIR group compared with the control group across several self-reported outcome measures, including reductions in fibromyalgia impact scores, pain-related cognitions, and depressive symptoms. Improvements were also reported in perceived sleep quality and cognitive functioning.

The authors described the findings as indicating potential clinical benefit but noted the need for further research, including larger and independently replicated randomized controlled trials.

'''Neuroplasticity Intervention, Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR), Significantly Improves Overall Health and Functioning Across Various Chronic Conditions (Dec 2023) [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10886399/ 1]'''

This study evaluated self-reported outcomes from individuals who had participated in the Gupta Program across a range of chronic conditions, including ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, and long COVID. Participants reported improvements in symptom severity and quality of life measures following engagement with the program.

The study design was observational, with no control group and reliance on self-selected participants who had completed the program. Outcomes were based entirely on self-report, and the authors acknowledged limitations including potential selection bias and lack of objective clinical or physiological measures.

'''Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR) Significantly Reduces Fatigue and Increases Energy in People with Long COVID (Jul 2023) [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2023/7068326 4]'''

This randomized controlled trial evaluated Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR) in individuals with long COVID, with fatigue as the primary outcome. Participants were assigned to either an AIR-based intervention or a control condition, and outcomes were assessed using self-reported symptom scales measuring fatigue, energy levels, and related functional impairment.

The study reported statistically significant improvements in fatigue and increases in self-reported energy in the AIR group compared with controls at post-intervention and follow-up timepoints. Secondary outcomes also included improvements in quality-of-life and related symptom measures. The authors noted that the findings suggest potential benefit but emphasized the exploratory nature of the study and the need for larger, independently replicated trials.

As with other studies in this area, outcomes were primarily based on self-reported measures, and no objective biomarkers or neuroimaging outcomes were included to assess proposed mechanisms of action.

'''Mindfulness-Based Program Plus Amygdala and Insula Retraining (MAIR) for the Treatment of Women with Fibromyalgia: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (Oct 2020) [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7599726/ 10]'''

This randomized controlled pilot trial evaluated a combined intervention consisting of mindfulness training plus Amygdala and Insula Retraining (MAIR), compared with an active control group receiving relaxation therapy alongside treatment as usual. The study included patients with fibromyalgia and assessed outcomes across symptom severity, psychological variables, and select biological markers.

Results reported greater improvements in self-reported pain, functional impairment, anxiety, and depression in the MAIR group compared with the control group at post-treatment and follow-up. The study also reported changes in some biomarkers (including reductions in brain-derived neurotrophic factor), although no consistent effects were observed across inflammatory markers. The intervention combined multiple components, making it difficult to isolate the specific contribution of the Gupta/AIR elements.

'''A Mind-Body Technique for Symptoms Related to Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue (Mar/Apr 2012) [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1550830711003405 11]'''

This single-blind randomized controlled pilot trial evaluated a mind–body intervention based on Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR) in patients with fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or both. Participants were recruited from a tertiary care clinic and randomly assigned to either AIR plus standard care or standard care alone.

The AIR intervention consisted of a short structured training session based on techniques adapted from an existing amygdala retraining program, delivered in addition to standard multidisciplinary care. Standard care included conventional clinical management within a specialist clinic setting.

Out of 44 randomized participants who completed baseline assessments, 21 completed the study (14 in the standard care group and 7 in the AIR group). Attrition was substantial in both groups, with participants either withdrawing, not completing baseline measures, or not completing follow-up assessments.

The study reported statistically significant improvements in self-reported measures of physical health, fatigue, pain, and symptom distress in the AIR group compared with standard care. Outcomes were based on validated self-report questionnaires, including measures of fatigue, pain, sleep disturbance, and overall health status. The study did not include objective biomarkers or neuroimaging outcomes.

The authors noted limitations including small sample size, lack of a full placebo control, and potential confounding factors such as concurrent treatments and participant motivation.

'''Can amygdala retraining techniques improve the well-being of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome: A clinical audit of subjective outcomes in a small sample (Sep 2010)'''
::'''Conflict of interest not declared:''' Author and investigator Virginia Gasión (Virginia Gasión Royo) had been a Gupta coach since 2014, which means she earns from people doing the Gupta Program, giving a direct final financial conflict of interest.<ref name="Guptacoaches">{{Cite web | url=https://www.guptaprogram.com/coaches | title = Our Professional Team of Coaches | last = | first = | authorlink = | date = | website = Gupta Program|language=en-US|archive-url=|archive-date=|url-status=|access-date=2022-06-03}}</ref>
*2012, A mind-body technique for symptoms related to fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue<ref name="Toussaint2012">{{Cite journal | title = A mind-body technique for symptoms related to fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue | date = Mar 2012| url = https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22385563/|journal=Explore (New York, N.Y.)|volume=8|issue=2 | pages = 92–98 | last = Toussaint | first = Loren L. | authorlink = Loren Toussaint | last2 = Whipple | first2 = Mary O. | authorlink2 = | last3 = Abboud | first3 = Lana L. | authorlink3 = | last4 = Vincent | first4 = Ann | authorlink4 = Ann Vincent | last5 = Wahner-Roedler | first5 = Dietlind L.|doi=10.1016/j.explore.2011.12.003|pmc=|pmid=22385563|access-date=|issn=1878-7541|quote=|via=}}</ref> - [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Loren-Toussaint/publication/229324365_A_Mind-Body_Technique_for_Symptoms_Related_to_Fibromyalgia_and_Chronic_Fatigue/links/59e3bb3f458515393d5b935f/A-Mind-Body-Technique-for-Symptoms-Related-to-Fibromyalgia-and-Chronic-Fatigue.pdf (Full text)]
::The [[Advertising Standards Authority]] rejected this as evidence of effectiveness of the Gupta Program.<ref name="ASA2018">{{Cite web|url=https://www.asa.org.uk/rulings/harley-street-solutions-ltd-a17-400324.html|title=Harley Street Solutions Ltd|last=Advertising Standards Authority {{!}} Committee of Advertising Practice|first=|authorlink=Advertising Standards Authority|date=April 11, 2018|website=Advertising Standards Authority|access-date=2020-08-29}}</ref>
::This was open to patients with [[chronic fatigue syndrome]] but none completed it. Of the 32 patients randomly assigned to Amygdala and Insula Retraining (AIR) plus standard care, 19% (6 patients) dropped out before starting, 19% (6 patients) did not complete baseline measures but did AIR, 41% (13 patients) did AIR but not the follow-up assessments, 22% (7 patients) did AIR and completed follow-up assessments. Twice as many patients completed standard care, including both assessments - 56% (14 out of 25).<ref name="Toussaint2012" />

===Articles not peer reviewed or from non-academic journals===
*2010, Can amygdala retraining techniques improve the wellbeing of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome? A clinical audit of subjective outcomes in a small sample<ref name="GuptaAudit">{{Cite journal |archive-url = http://web.archive.org/web/20111119095503/http://www.guptaprogramme.com/Amygdala_Retraining_JHH_Sept_2010.pdf |archive-date=2011-11-11 | url = https://www.guptaprogram.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/amygdala-retraining-jhh-sept-2010.pdf | last = Gupta | first = A | authorlink = Ashok Gupta | date =September 2010 | title = Can amygdala retraining techniques improve the wellbeing of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome? A clinical audit of subjective outcomes in a small sample. |journal = Journal of Holistic Healthcare |volume= 7 |issue =2 | pages = 12-15 |access-date=2022-06-02}}</ref> - [http://web.archive.org/web/20111119095503/http://www.guptaprogramme.com/Amygdala_Retraining_JHH_Sept_2010.pdf (Full text)]
::The Advertising Standards Authority rejected this as evidence of effectiveness of the Gupta Program.<ref name="ASA2018" />
::This was not published in an academic journal<ref name="JHH">{{Cite web | url=https://bhma.org/journal-information-for-contributors/ | title = Journal - information for contributors | last = | first = | authorlink = | date = | website = British Holistic Medical Association|archive-url=|archive-date=|url-status=|access-date=2022-06-03}}</ref>
*2002, Unconscious amygdalar fear conditioning in a subset of chronic fatigue syndrome patients<ref name="Gupta2002">{{Cite journal | last = Gupta | first = Ashok | authorlink = Ashok Gupta | date = 2002 | title = Unconscious amygdalar fear conditioning in a subset of chronic fatigue syndrome patients| url = https://www.guptaprogram.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/cfs-hypothesis-medical-hypotheses-article.pdf | journal=Medical Hypotheses|volume=59|issue=6 | pages = 727–735|quote=|via=}}</ref> - [https://www.guptaprogram.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/cfs-hypothesis-medical-hypotheses-article.pdf (Full text)]
::The ''Medical Hypotheses'' journal that published this is reported to be the world's most controversial journal,<ref name="MHcontroversial">{{Cite journal | title = Editor says no to peer review for controversial journal | date = 2010-03-18| url = https://www.nature.com/articles/news.2010.132|journal=Nature | last = Cressey | first = Daniel|language=en|doi=10.1038/news.2010.132|issn=1476-4687}}</ref> and describes itself as publishing hypothesis that are "radical, speculative and non-mainstream scientific ideas" and some "where experimental support is yet fragmentary".<ref name="MH">{{Cite web | url=https://www.elsevier.com/journals/medical-hypotheses/0306-9877/guide-for-authors | title = Guide for authors - Medical Hypotheses - ISSN 0306-9877 | last = | first = | authorlink = | date = | website = Elsevier|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|url-status=|access-date=2022-06-03}}</ref><ref name="MH-SS">{{Cite web | url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/medical-hypotheses | title = Medical Hypotheses {{!}} Journal | last = | first = | authorlink = | date = | website = ScienceDirect.com by Elsevier|language=en-us|archive-url=|archive-date=|url-status=|access-date=2022-06-03}}</ref> It is peer-reviewed.

==Personal experiences==
* 2009, [http://web.archive.org/web/20090405173658/http://www.phoenix-cfs.org/BlogAmygdalaTraining1.htm Amygdala Training part 1 Blog] - Cort Johnson (archived)
* 2012, [https://phoenixrising.me/myalgic-encephalomyelitis-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-mecfs-treatments/mind-body/amygdala-retraining/a-psychotherapist-reviews-ashtok-guptas-amygdala-retraining-program-by-tamara-lewis/ A Psychotherapist Reviews Ashok Gupta’s Amygdala Retraining Program] – Tamara Lewis
* 2010, [https://cfs-survivors.org/blog/2010/07/11/just-passed-six-months-on-the-gupta-programme/ Just passed six months on the Gupta programme] - Graham Stoney

==See also ==
*[[Criticisms of The Gupta Program]]
*[[Ashok Gupta]]
*[[Brain retraining]]
*[[Pseudoscience]]
*[[Mindfulness]]

==Learn more ==
* 2018, [https://www.asa.org.uk/rulings/harley-street-solutions-ltd-a17-400324.html Advertising Standards Association complaint result]
* 2009, [https://web.archive.org/web/20210422023328/https://www.prohealth.com/library/qa-session-with-ashok-gupta-developer-of-the-amygdala-retraining-program-for-me-cfs-and-fm-held-july-10-2009-26402 Q&A Session with Ashok Gupta developer of Amygdala Retraining Program for ME/CFS, FM] - ProHealth (archived)

==References ==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Psychological paradigm]]
[[Category:Psychological and behavioral therapies]]
[[Category:Potential treatments]]
[[Category:Brain training]]