I struggle with a disorder call night eating syndrome.  My symptoms
include: waking in the night and going to get something to eat.  I
generally do this 6 out of 7 nights of the week and it occurs about 2
- 3 times a night.  I have read information on the internet about this
and have heard mixed things.  It is pyschological and medical problem.
 I want to try to get help for this and not sure which direction to
take - can you give me some advice?

Hello daugh~

"Nocturnal Eating Syndrome" (also called "Night Eating Syndrome" or
NES) is considered an "extrinsic sleep disorder," which means it is
caused by external or developmental issues. This disorder is found in
about 10 to 26% of obese people, and has been linked to stress (
http://www.mercola.com/2002/mar/2/eating_syndrome.htm )

Typically, victims eat little or no food in the morning, but eat more
food after dinner than they did during that meal. Typically, the
victim feels guilty, tense, and upset when they are eating. The food
eaten during the night is also often high in carbs. According to one
online article ( http://www.neuronic.com/night-eating_disorder.htm ),
there is some debate about whether this is a sleeping disorder or an
eating disorder.

For help, there are several places you can turn. One option is to
simply to visit your doctor and explain your problem. Ask him to refer
you to a sleep disorder center, where you can receive treatment.

Another option is to get a referral through The Eating Disorder
Referral and Information Center:
http://www.edreferral.com/

In either case, you will probably need to go someplace where doctors
can monitor your sleeping/eating habits, and treat you accordingly.
But rest assured, there *is* help out there!


Keywords Used:
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