Night Eating Syndrome

Night eating syndrome, also called “midnight hunger”, is characterized by a persistent and on-going pattern of late-night binge eating.

Causes

Depression, anxiety, hostility and stress are strongly implicated in Night Easting Syndrome. These negative emotion, along with the embarrassment and guilt that come with such an unconventional eating pattern aggravate the problem. Also, an imbalance in the hormones that regulate sleep and appetite could be at the source of the disruption of eating and sleeping patterns.

Symptoms

Not everyone will show the same symptoms, but the most common are:

Skipping breakfast and going several hours after waking before having a meal
Consuming 25% or more of daily calories after dinner (not including dessert; late night binges are almost always consisting of carbohydrates)
Affect and arousal decrease during the day (the lowest being in the middle of the night-eating episode)
Trouble sleeping
Depression and/or anxiety, often connected to the eating habits
Frequent failed attempts at dieting
Possible substance abuse
Negative self-image and concern about weight and shape

HOW DOES IT AFFECT FAMILY LIFE?

NES affects the whole family. Loved ones often find it hard to understand that an eating disorder is actually about feelings and coping, rather than food. This can lead to misunderstandings and arguments, particularly at meal times.

Night Eating Syndrome

Physical and psychological side effects over time can include:

Irregular heartbeat
Low blood pressure
Dehydration
Brittle bones
Kidney problems
Extreme fatigue
Chemical changes in the brain affecting thoughts
Depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts
Loss of libido
And many more effects that can lead to infertility in women, osteoporosis, epilepsy, cancer, diabetes and death

Treatement

Nutrition assessment and therapy, exercise physiology as well as an integration of stress management, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) all contribute to the treatment plan of NES. Recent research on the benefits of medication in the treatment of NES support the use of sertraline (Zoloft) as a drug that offers effective treatment in some cases.

FAMILY SUPPORT

Most families benefit from family help aimed at supporting and managing any difficult relationships. Family work is helpful and encouraged, depending on your ability to cope.

CAN I RECOVER FROM NIGHT EATING SYNDROME?

Even after many years with the illness, you can recover and go on to live a full life but you must want to recover.

Night Eating Syndrome