The somnologist spoke about the relationship between lack of sleep and night eating syndrome

Lack of sleep leads to serious hormonal changes that provoke eating disorders. Maxim Novikov, a somnologist at Meditsina JSC (Academician Roitberg Clinic), told Izvestia on September 4 about the connection between lack of sleep and the development of night eating syndrome.

"Night eating syndrome is characterized by regular consumption of food in the evening and at night, often after the main dinner. People with this disorder may wake up due to a feeling of hunger or an overwhelming desire to eat, which is accompanied by emotional discomfort, stress or anxiety," the doctor said.

The main consequences of this disorder are sleep disorders, weight gain, and feelings of guilt after a night of snacking.

The mechanism of development of the disorder is associated with changes in the level of key appetite hormones. Lack of sleep reduces the production of leptin, which is responsible for feeling full, and increases the production of ghrelin, which stimulates hunger. This creates a physiological predisposition to overeating at night. Additional factors include a slowing of metabolism, decreased insulin sensitivity, and deterioration of cognitive functions, including the ability to self-control.

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Diagnosis of night eating syndrome includes a clinical interview with a somnologist or psychotherapist, filling out specialized questionnaires, and keeping a food diary to identify patterns of eating behavior. An important step is to exclude other disorders such as depression or anxiety.

The specialist emphasizes that understanding the relationship between sleep deprivation and eating disorders makes it possible to develop effective treatment strategies. If symptoms appear, it is recommended to seek professional help to correct your lifestyle and receive the necessary support.

On March 20, endocrinologist, nutritionist at the SM Clinic, PhD Oksana Mikhaleva told Izvestia about products that cause insomnia. So, this is a caffeinated food, which can include chocolate. That's why she recommended eliminating this product in the evening.

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