Night eating syndrome

Night eating syndrome (NES) is an eating disorder characterized by a delayed circadian pattern of food intake. It is distinct from binge eating disorder, as the amount of food consumed during the night is not necessarily objectively large, and a loss of control over food intake is not required. First described by Albert Stunkard in 1955, NES is currently included in the "other specified feeding or eating disorder" category of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).

Research Diagnostic Criteria

Proposed research diagnostic criteria for NES include:

• Evening hyperphagia: The consumption of 25% or more of the total daily calories after the evening meal.
• Nocturnal awakening and ingestion of food: The individual wakes up and consumes food two or more times per week.

Symptoms and Features

Symptoms and features of NES may include:

• Delayed circadian pattern of food intake: Individuals with NES consume a significant portion of their daily calories during the evening and nighttime hours.
• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep: Those with NES may experience insomnia or frequent nighttime awakenings related to the need to eat.
• Lack of appetite in the morning: Individuals with NES often report having little to no appetite for breakfast.
• Mood disturbances: NES may be associated with mood disorders, such as depression or anxiety, and the severity of the eating disorder may be linked to the severity of the mood disturbance.
• Potential weight gain and obesity: NES can lead to weight gain and obesity due to increased caloric intake during the evening and nighttime hours.

Treatment

Treatment for NES may involve various approaches, including:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT can help individuals with NES identify and change unhealthy eating patterns and develop coping strategies to manage stress and emotions related to their eating disorder.
• Medications: Antidepressants or other medications may be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms of NES, particularly if the individual also suffers from a mood disorder.
• Light therapy: Exposure to bright light in the morning can help reset the body's internal clock and improve sleep and eating patterns in individuals with NES.
• Sleep hygiene: Practicing good sleep hygiene, including establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine, can help improve sleep quality and reduce the frequency of nighttime awakenings related to food consumption.

In conclusion, Night Eating Syndrome is a complex eating disorder characterized by a delayed pattern of food intake. A multidisciplinary approach, including psychological therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, may be necessary to effectively treat the condition.

Night eating syndrome Resources
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