Nocturnal Sleep Related Eating Disorder

We're all familiar with sleepwalking and may even have been told we've done it ourselves. Added to this in recent years is a newly recognized sleeping problem known as nocturnal sleep related eating disorder. This unconscious behavior points up just how much the subconscious mind can take over sufferers at night. What are the symptoms of nocturnal sleep related eating disorder, and are there ways of treating it?

Symptoms

Given that both can involve activity while asleep, nocturnal sleep related eating disorder is associated with sleepwalking. However, while in sleepwalking, simple motion is the basis, those suffering from nocturnal sleep related eating disorder tend to head straight for food, which generally means going to the kitchen. Sufferers will eat while still asleep or only partially awake, and often cannot recall episodes of sleep-eating.

Often, the foods consumed are high in fat and calories or involve strange combinations of foods. The behavior seems to be exhibited by those who are dieting or depressed, causing binges when the subconscious mind is in control. If you suffer from nocturnal sleep related eating disorder, you may wake up with food in the kitchen, with a stomachache from overeating, and may suffer from a loss of appetite in the mornings.

Solutions

Treatment of nocturnal sleep related eating disorder isn't always easy, but tends to start with a trip to a sleep disorder center so you can be studied while asleep. Based on the results of these studies, doctors may provide a course of treatment to stop further episodes of nocturnal sleep related eating disorder. Often this will not include sleeping pills, as a person may continue to have episodes under sedation. In addition, sometimes occurrences of nocturnal sleep related eating disorder are linked to other compulsions, including drug and alcohol addiction, so introducing sedatives that can cause dependency will often worsen the problem.

There seems to be a big link to stress and this particular sleep disorder, so your doctor may recommend ways of reducing anxiety and stress. One thing is for certain. If you make use of substances you should make every effort to stay away from alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, or any other stimulants or drugs. You should review your diet to ensure that it is not being too restrictive during the day, and to arrange for study at a sleep center. By doing a little research, educating yourself, and taking appropriate steps you'll soon be sleeping as you should be. Nocturnal sleep related eating disorder can become history!

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