NIGHT EATING SYNDROME

Night eating syndrome (NES) is a type of eating disorder related to eating after dinner and when awake at night. People who suffer from night eating syndrome get up in the middle of the night to eat, which can result in poor sleep, increased risk of chronic illnesses like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and poor sleep quality.

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF NES

 Nighttime eating: Individuals with NES consume significant amounts of food after their evening meal, often feeling compelled to eat.

Insomnia or sleep disturbances: People with NES often wake up in the middle of the night to eat, leading to disrupted sleep patterns.

Reduced morning appetite: Due to high calorie intake at night, individuals may have little to no appetite in the morning.

Guilt or distress about eating habits: NES is often accompanied by feelings of shame, anxiety, or guilt about nighttime eating.

Depressed mood, particularly at night- Enduring distress or difficulties with day-to-day functioning as a result of episodes of night eating.

THE REASON BEHIND NES/ WHAT LEADS TO NES?

1) Circadian rhythm disorders: Your body’s natural “clock” that determines when you feel energized, hungry, and sleepy is called the circadian rhythm. Your body clock malfunctions if you have a NES. Hormones that cause hunger and alertness are released by your body at night, as opposed to during the day.

2) Genetics: Because NES tends to run in families, medical professionals believe that a person’s genetic makeup may influence their likelihood of developing the condition.

3) Mental health: Anxiety and depression are common mood disorders among people experiencing NES.

4) Dieting throughout the day: Not receiving enough calories during the day might occasionally lead to NES. Individuals who limit their food consumption during the day can be more prone to nighttime binges.

5) The notion that one must eat to fall asleep.

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN NES AND OBESITY

There are two types of disordered eating linked to overweight and obesity, binge-eating disorder (BED) and night-eating syndrome (NES). Although non-obese individuals can also experience these disorders, they appear to be linked to progressive weight gain, an increased risk of diabetes, and other metabolic problems. Moreover, NES and BED are linked to a higher risk of psychopathology than people with comparable weight status who do not have disordered eating, including mood, anxiety, and sleep issues. People with NES can also find it difficult to lose weight. But treating the condition is the first step towards a healthier lifestyle.

TREATMENT-

 1) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy- A talk therapy that can assist you in modifying problematic behaviours and forming better routines. CBT may help you manage your appetite at night and eat more during the day.

2) Antidepressant medications- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are antidepressant drugs that help you feel better and control your emotions.

3) Progressive muscle relaxation- To apply progressive muscle relaxation, one muscle group at a time is progressively tensed across the body, released, and then the next portion of the body is targeted. This method is frequently employed to manage tension and anxiety.

4) Phototherapy– Using a specific light for 15 to 30 minutes each day will alter your circadian rhythm making you feel drowsy at night.

5) Melatonin Supplements- Melatonin is a hormone that regulates and controls the sleep-wake cycle.

CONCLUSION-

 Eating at night occasionally might not be a problem in and of itself, but if your food intake or meal schedule are affecting your health or quality of life, required action must be taken.

Night Eating Syndrome is a serious condition that goes beyond the occasional late-night snack. Its effects on both physical and mental health can be profound, but with the right support and interventions, recovery is possible.