Treating Night Eating Syndrome

Night Eating Syndrome, characterized by overeating in the evening, sleeplessness, and depression, contributes significantly to the development of obesity. While not currently included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), Night Eating Syndrome poses a problem for many people who may be trying to seek treatment.

Education

Diagnosing Night Eating Disorder (NES) is the first step to proper treatment. Awareness of eating patterns and triggers may help with the recovery process. It’s hard to fight an unknown issue.

Hormonal Supplements

Hormonal imbalances may cause some instances of NES. Very low levels of melatonin, leptin, and serotonin can disrupt sleep cycles and eating patterns. Hormonal supplements can replenish the depleted hormones and contribute to the return of regular sleeping and eating habits.

Medications

Depression and anxiety often underlie eating disorders, and NES is no exception. These disorders can induce emotional binge eating, affecting hormone levels such as serotonin. Doctors often prescribe selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to patients suffering from depression to reduce the symptoms of the disorder. SSRIs may also help people suffering from NES by reducing their desire to eat at night.

Psychotherapy

NES is sometimes caused by excess stress from work or at home. Other psychological factors can affect eating patterns as well, causing people to turn to NES to deal with these problems. Psychologists and therapists work with patients to discover what psychological problem may be causing their NES. Once the doctors have identified the problem, they can provide information about healthy coping skills that will erase the need to binge eat at night. Other types of therapy include behavioral and group therapy, where the doctors teach life skills and discuss support networks.

Nutritional Counseling

Nutritionists play a big role in recovering from NES. These professionals teach patients about proper eating and exercise routines that will help them maintain healthy and happy lifestyles during and after recovery.

Overall, there are many causes of Night Eating Syndrome, and each cause has its own treatment option. Doctors and clinicians will be able to properly diagnose patients concerned about NES.

Source: Casa Palmera