1. Know What It's All About
People with a sleep-related eating disorder display abnormal eating habits during sleep hours. Also known as NS-RED, or nocturnal sleep related eating disorder, people with this affliction consume food while they're sleeping. Sufferers find themselves going into the kitchen and preparing food while sleepwalking; they may eat the prepared food and return to bed, unaware of their actions. Patients with histories of alcohol or drug abuse, depression and previous sleep disorders are more likely to suffer from the disorder.
2. The Case of the Missing Food
If you live alone, you may have a harder time guessing that you have a sleep-related eating disorder. If you live with a spouse or roommate, they can let you know of any strange eating habits you have displayed. Your first sign of a sleep-related eating disorder may involve noticing food missing from your fridge or pantry. You may also find dishes in the sink or food that you don't remember leaving out. Also, you can wake up with a full feeling although the last time you recall eating was the night before.
3. Where's the Extra Weight Coming From?
To diagnose a sleep-related eating disorder, you may want to look at your overall health. When you eat during your sleep, you're not controlling the food you put into your body. You may consume foods high in fat and sugar. Since many patients don't factor their nighttime eating into their regular diet, they may start to gain some weight. Patients with nocturnal sleep related eating disorder may consume snacks, like chips, cakes and cookies. At periods of high stress, they could notice an even higher incidence of weight gain. Many times, a person with a sleep-related eating disorder will display worse symptoms when they're stressed.
4. How Sleep Centers Can Help
If you suspect you have a sleep-related eating disorder, you'll want to confirm diagnosis with a physician. After discussing your symptoms with a doctor, he'll likely refer you to a sleep specialist. The clinician may first physically examine you and take blood work to rule out any possible medical conditions. You'll then have to spend the night at a sleep center. Clinicians will monitor your behavior and your brain activity while you sleep. If you show the signs of attempting to eat during sleep, the clinician will decide on the best course of treatment.
