Disorder 7: Sleep-Related Eating Disorder
Sleep-Related Eating Disorder (SRED) is a type of parasomnia characterized by recurrent episodes of eating during the night, often while in a state of partial arousal or sleep. Individuals with SRED typically have little or no memory of these nocturnal eating episodes and may consume unusual food combinations or even inedible substances, posing potential health risks and disrupting their sleep quality.
The exact cause of SRED is not entirely understood, but it is believed to result from a disruption in the normal transition between sleep stages, leading to a state of mixed consciousness. Factors that may contribute to the development of SRED include stress, sleep deprivation, dieting, certain medications, and other sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, or insomnia.
Diagnosing SRED involves a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and sleep patterns. Healthcare providers may also use sleep logs or actigraphy to monitor the individual’s sleep-wake patterns over time. In some cases, an overnight sleep study (polysomnography) may be conducted to rule out other sleep disorders that could be contributing to the nocturnal eating episodes.
Treatment for SRED often focuses on addressing the underlying factors contributing to the disorder, such as improving sleep hygiene, managing stress, and adjusting medications if necessary. In some cases, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other forms of psychotherapy may be beneficial in helping individuals develop healthier sleep and eating habits.
For those with more severe cases of SRED or when other treatment approaches have been unsuccessful, medications such as benzodiazepines, antidepressants, or anticonvulsants may be prescribed to help reduce the frequency and severity of nocturnal eating episodes. (7)
