The link between night eating syndrome and obesity
Night eating syndrome (NES) is a condition that is characterised by late-night binge eating and waking up to eat during the night. NES is thought to be a contributing factor to obesity, as people with NES are more likely to consume more calories than those without the condition.
NES is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with NES are more likely to have a family history of the condition, and it is also more common in people who work night shifts or have irregular sleep patterns. NES is also associated with other conditions such as depression and anxiety, which may also contribute to weight gain.
People with NES often eat high-calorie, sugary foods late at night, which can lead to weight gain. They may also have difficulty sleeping, which can further contribute to weight gain.NES is a treatable condition, and there are a number of strategies that can be used to manage the condition. These include making dietary changes, such as avoiding late-night eating, and getting regular exercise.NES is a serious condition that can lead to obesity. If you think you may have NES, it is important to see a doctor or specialist for diagnosis and treatment.Extra resources
The financial impact of night eating syndrome
What is night eating syndrome?
Night eating syndrome (NES) is an eating disorder characterized by late-night eating and early-morning hunger. NES is a relatively new disorder that was first described in the medical literature in 1955. NES is considered a disorder of circadian rhythm, meaning that it is characterized by a disruption in the body’s natural sleep/wake cycle.
NES is different from other eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, in several ways. First, NES is not associated with an irrational fear of gaining weight or body dysmorphic concerns. Secondly, NES is not primarily motivated by a desire to lose weight. Rather, people with NES tend to eat in response to negative emotions, such as boredom, stress, or anxiety. Finally, people with NES typically do not binge eat or purge after meals.
What are the symptoms of night eating syndrome?
The most common symptom of NES is eating late at night. People with NES may eat after dinner, before bed, or even during the night. They may also wake up in the middle of the night to eat. People with NES typically eat more calories at night than they do during the day.
Other common symptoms of NES include:
early morning hunger
insomnia or difficulty sleeping
depression
anxiety
mood swings
irritability
What are the causes of night eating syndrome?
The exact cause of NES is unknown. However, it is thought to be caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors.
Biological factors that may contribute to NES include:
a disruption in the body’s natural sleep/wake cycle
abnormal levels of hormones that regulate hunger, such as ghrelin
Psychological factors that may contribute to NES include:
stress
anxiety
depression
boredom
Social factors that may contribute to NES include:
an irregular schedule, such as working night shifts
jet lag
What are the treatments for night eating syndrome?
The most effective treatment for NES is a combination of behavioral therapy and medication.
Behavioral therapy for NES typically includes:
education about the disorder
instruction on how to develop healthy eating and sleep habits
strategies for managing stress and emotions
support groups
Medications that are commonly used to treat NES include:
antidepressants
anti-anxiety medications
stimulants
What are the complications of night eating syndrome?
NES can lead to a number of complications, including:
weight gain
obesity
type 2 diabetes
high blood pressure
high cholesterol
heart disease
What is the outlook for night eating syndrome?
The outlook for NES is generally good. With treatment, most people with NES are able to develop healthy eating and sleep habits.
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