Symptom 2: Physical Discomfort from Evening Overeating
For many with NES, the consequence of their nocturnal eating episodes isn’t just restricted to weight concerns or emotional guilt. Their bodies, particularly the digestive system, might bear the brunt of this disorder. The process of digestion involves a series of complex biochemical and muscular actions. Consuming heavy or even moderate meals just before bedtime means the digestive system is now thrust into high gear during what should typically be a period of rest. This sudden flurry of activity might lead to digestive discomforts like bloating, heartburn, or even gas, making falling asleep an ordeal.
Many of us have experienced the occasional discomfort of heartburn after a particularly indulgent meal. However, for those with NES, this might be a frequent ordeal. Nighttime eating, especially of spicy or acidic foods, can lead to acid reflux. Lying down post such meals can worsen GERD symptoms, as the acid finds it easier to flow back into the esophagus. This not only interrupts the onset of sleep but, over time, can also lead to more severe health implications like esophagitis.
The liver plays a critical role in processing the food we eat. It’s particularly active during the night, converting glucose into glycogen, producing bile, and detoxifying the body. When an individual with NES eats late into the night, they’re essentially providing their liver with “overtime” work. This extra load can, over time, strain the liver, leading to potential problems like fatty liver disease, especially if the nocturnal diet leans towards unhealthy, fatty foods.
The pancreas, responsible for releasing insulin in response to food intake, doesn’t get a reprieve either. Constant nighttime eating means that it needs to keep producing insulin. Over time, this could lead to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. This is especially concerning, given that many with NES might already be predisposed to metabolic syndrome, making them more vulnerable to diabetes. (2)
