Night Eating Syndrome

 

Night eating syndrome, also called “midnight hunger”, is characterized by a persistent and on-

going pattern of late-night binge eating.

WHAT CAUSES IT?

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.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF NES?

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

THE LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF NES

Individuals with NES are often overweight or even obese, which makes them subject to health

problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, heart diseases,

gallbladder disease and many types of cancer.

HOW IS IT TREATED?

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.

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.

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 ?

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

want to recover.