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What is sleep eating? -

Sleep-related eating disorder or SRED is a sleep disorder known to cause unusual eating behaviors during sleep.

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How sleep eating happens -

With this disorder, you walk in your sleep and eat without ever remembering it afterward.

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How often does a person eat while asleep? -

Most who have SRED have an episode of sleep eating almost every night. It can occur at any time during the night and there may be more than one sleep-eating event each night.

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Medications -

While SRED can develop on its own, it can also be a side effect of certain types of medications, namely those used to treat depression and sleep problems.

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Lifestyle and environmental triggers -

Things that can trigger SRED include stress, irregular sleep schedules, and abrupt medication changes.

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Risk factors -

Many risk factors might lead to the development of SRED including ending the abuse of alcohol or drugs, daytime eating disorders, hepatitis, or even stress. 

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Do you have any control? -

You don't have any control during an episode. People have been known to consume food they're allergic to and subsequently have an allergic reaction.

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Foods commonly consumed -

With SRED, there is a preference for ultra-processed comfort foods such as candy, chips, and cakes.

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Unusual eating habits -

During an episode, people can eat strange, unhealthy, and possibly dangerous combinations of food, including buttered cigarettes or other inedible substances.

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Duration of episodes -

An episode of sleep-related eating might only last ten minutes, including the time it takes to get from the bed to your kitchen and back again. However, food is often consumed at a quick rate during these episodes.

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Physical health effects -

Because the foods chosen are often heavy ultra-processed foods, they can lead to obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

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Mental health effects -

These episodes can result in a lot of stress and anxiety in everyday life. The weight gain may also cause body image issues, depression, or even embarrassment. 

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Safety risks -

In addition to the risk of not handling food properly in these events, such as consuming food at an unsafe temperature, you could also trip or fall and injure yourself.

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Long-term impact -

Some prominent long-term impacts of SRED include possible nutritional imbalances, chronic sleep disruption, and interference with relationships. 

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Recognizing the disorder -

By learning that the disorder exists as well as what causes it and how it can impact you, you're a step ahead of most. 

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Role of a sleep diary -

In addition to speaking with a doctor, it can be important and helpful to keep a sleep diary. Use it religiously for two weeks and write down all the details related to how you slept, how you felt the night before, and your energy levels the next day.

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Polysomnography (sleep study) -

It could also be helpful to do a Polysomnography or sleep study. The test will chart your brain waves, heart rate, and breathing while you are sleeping.

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Identifying coexisting disorders -

It's extremely important to be diligent in disclosing and uncovering other sleep-related issues as they can all tie together and severely impact you.

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Medical treatment options -

Medications should only be prescribed by a licensed medical professional. They can include options such as melatonin or anti-depressants like Trazadone.

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Behavioral and lifestyle changes -

For someone who experiences SRED, it's important to try and manage stress in the best way possible, maintain consistent sleep routines, and always keep your doctor in the loop.

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Safety measures -

If you know you're prone to or have been experiencing SRED, it's important to take safety precautions. Things like locking the kitchen doors, hiding utensils, and securing hazardous substances can go a long way.

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Dietary adjustments -

Don't restrict your eating or count calories in the daytime if you have SRED as it can lead to late-night cravings.

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Addressing underlying causes -

Underlying causes of SRED can range from sleep disorders like restless leg syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea to medications such as some antidepressants or sedatives.

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Treatment success rates -

Treatment success rates can vary wildly. It's important for those affected to look into individualized treatment plans and adhere to them strictly.

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Be your own advocate -

Unfortunately, no one else can save you from SRED. You have to be your own best advocate. Following the ideas in this gallery and educating yourself are great steps first steps. 

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FAQ: When should I see a healthcare provider? -

If symptoms worsen or you notice they're having a severe impact on you, your happiness, or your health, be sure to see a medical professional.

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FAQ: What questions should I ask my doctor? -

Questions such as, "What caused my symptoms?", "What lifestyle changes should I make?", and "Are there side effects of the treatment?" are all excellent questions to ask a doctor.

Sources: (Clevland Clinic) (CNN Health) (ASSM)

See also: Healthy foods that can be harmful is you eat too much

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