Scientists at Microsoft Research have been exploring the possibility of developing pieces of hardware to try and explore the relationship between overeating and emotional states of mind.

Researchers have developed a piece of kit, which sees the use of a bra kitted out with monitors that detect electrocardiograph (EKG) levels close to the heart. Microsoft had also attempted to conduct tests with men’s underwear, but found that the sensors would be placed too far away from the heart to be effective.

Women who took part in the study were asked to wear the bra, which sought to cross reference emotional feelings when overeating with EKG patterns and then send a message to the user’s smartphone when similar emotional levels and electrocardiograph levels were detected to help warn of possible overeating.

Though the team of researchers is not yet aware whether or not the alert will actually prevent overeating, they do plan to persist with further research to explore the possibility of creating a device to cope with the challenges posed by everyday use.

The technological experts have been working closely with both the University of Rochester, New York and the UK’s University of Southampton to further their research.

Their findings have been published in a paper titled Food and Mood: Just-in-Time Support for Emotional Eating, which is available to view here.