Night Eating Syndrome
What is Night Eating Syndrome (NES)?
Individuals with NES consume a significant portion of their daily food intake during the night, often waking up to eat, and they may experience little to no appetite in the morning.
What are the Symptoms and Effects of Night Eating Syndrome?
The syndrome is not only about the timing of eating but also includes problems with sleep. People with NES often have difficulty falling asleep and experience frequent awakenings. They might feel a compulsion to eat before they can return to sleep, leading to feelings of guilt and distress.
What does Treatment for Night Eating Syndrome look like?
Treatment for Night Eating Syndrome may involve a combination of behavioral therapies, nutritional counseling, and sometimes medication to help regulate sleep patterns. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been effective in addressing the behavioral and emotional aspects of NES.
What is NES's relation to Other Eating Disorders?
While NES can occur independently, it is important to assess for other eating disorders, as its symptoms can sometimes overlap with those of binge eating disorder or bulimia nervosa. Addressing NES involves a careful evaluation of an individual’s eating habits, emotional state, and sleep patterns to provide a comprehensive treatment approach.
