Night Eating Syndrome

Night Eating Syndrome Night eating syndrome is a parasomnia: a disorder that affects one’s sleep pattern. Those who suffer from nocturnal eating syndrome wake up at night with an uncontrollable urge to eat. Even if they are not hungry, they feel the need to eat and cannot fall back asleep unless they do. Eating episodes may occur several times a night and in most cases, the person is fully awake or partially awake, unlike sleep eating disorder, in which the individual eats while still asleep. Signs of Nocturnal Eating Syndrome Frequent awakening at night with a compulsive urge to eat. You must eat in order to return to sleep. During an episode you eat more food than you did at dinnertime. More than half of the food consumed in one day is eaten after dinner. You are not hungry in the morning and have no appetite for breakfast. Weight gain Night Eating Syndrome Treatments People with night eating syndrome often gain a lot of weight and feel guilty, ashamed and depressed about their condition. They may also experience daytime fatigue and have trouble concentrating due to lack of quality sleep. If you believe that you or someone you love has nocturnal or night eating syndrome or another type of nocturnal eating disorder like sleep eating disorder, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for professional diagnosis and treatment. Treatment for night eating syndrome usually involves medications that can help curb the compulsive behavior. Some self-help tips to try include: Exercising every day to improve sleep quality. Stress reduction and relaxation strategies such as yoga and meditation. Limit consumption of alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes. Avoid sleeping pills. Disclaimer: These statements and products are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult your physician regarding any sleeping disorders.