"Although at first glance, sleep eating syndrome may seem harmless although irritating, it does have its own dangers. With the extra calories, most of them empty calories from junk food, obesity must be considered. With the victim asleep, he or she is not aware of what is happening, the throat is more relaxed, and therefor there is a danger of choking. Also, some victims of night eating disorder not only eat. They cook a meal, and, not being in an alert state, are in danger from fire and sharp utensils."
The above paragraph was taken from an article I published in April, 2000, about nocturnal eating syndrome. This disorder may be more prevalent than first thought. Recent studies reveal that as many as 4 million Americans may be night bingers. It's adding to the epidemic of obesity spreading through the country. The majority of people eat too much of the wrong types of food when they're awake. When they're asleep, the situation escalates. Lack of judgement leads to imbibing unhealthy foods including doughnuts, potato chips, salted peanuts and other sugar-laden and/or greasy foods.
How can we combat this disorder? A few changes in the lifestyle may help.
- Exercise. Get out and get moving. Even a twenty minute daily walk might prove beneficial. Walk instead of riding if the distance is a short one. Climb the stairs instead of using the elevator. Exercise is best done earlier in the day. Evening exercise can be too stimulating and can disturb the sleep.
- Avoid those things that may cause sleep disturbances. No caffeine (coffee, chocolate, cola drinks) near bedtime. Remember, many medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, can contain caffeine, so be alert to this. Alcohol and nicotine can also interfere with sleep.
- Establish a regular routine. Go to bed and get up at regular times as much as possible. Often bedtime rituals can be beneficial.
- Drink a glass of warm milk before retiring.
- A warm, relaxing bath can be an aid to uninterrupted sleep. No showers, though, as they are stimulating.
- See your doctor and ask about sleep disorders such as sleep apnea that might be causing disrupted sleep.
- Also ask about any medications that might help. Some sufferers have benefited from using anti-depressants, such as Wellbutrin. Anti-seizure medications and drugs that affect dopamine levels in the brain are also sometimes effective. Experts do warn that sedatives tend to worsen the condition in some people.
If you suffer from nocturnal eating syndrome and you know it's getting out of control or if it's causing you to gain weight, causing you stress or depression, get help. Talk to your doctor.
