Sleep-Related Eating Disorder (SRED) is a lesser-known condition classified under parasomnias—unusual behaviors that occur during sleep. Unlike typical sleepwalking or sleep talking, SRED involves episodes of eating while a person is partially asleep, often without full awareness. These episodes can lead to serious health consequences and can be disruptive to both the individual and those around them. In this post, I’ll explore what SRED is, how it compares to other parasomnias, and what treatment options are available.
What Is Sleep-Related Eating Disorder (SRED)?
Sleep-Related Eating Disorder (SRED) is a parasomnia characterized by episodes of eating during a sleep-like state, with individuals typically having little to no memory of the events the next morning. These episodes often involve the consumption of high-calorie, unhealthy foods, and in some cases, even inedible or dangerous substances. SRED is distinct from normal nighttime snacking; it is involuntary, and the person is not fully conscious during these episodes.
How Does SRED Fit Within Parasomnias?
Parasomnias are a group of sleep disorders involving abnormal movements, behaviors, or perceptions during sleep or the transition between sleep and wakefulness. Other common parasomnias include sleepwalking, night terrors, and REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD). SRED shares similarities with sleepwalking, as both occur during non-REM sleep and involve complex behaviors performed while the individual is not fully awake. However, SRED is unique in its focus on food consumption during these episodes.
Health Impacts of Sleep-Related Eating Disorder
SRED can have significant negative effects on both physical and mental health:
- Weight Gain and Metabolic Issues: Frequent consumption of high-calorie foods during sleep can lead to weight gain, poor nutritional health, and an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic conditions.
- Risk of Consuming Harmful Substances: There is also a risk of consuming potentially dangerous substances, such as non-food items or spoiled food.
- Emotional Distress: The condition can contribute to feelings of shame, frustration, and distress, particularly if individuals are unaware of their nighttime eating habits until they find evidence in the morning.
SRED vs. Night Eating Syndrome (NES)
It’s important to distinguish SRED from Night Eating Syndrome (NES), as these conditions are often confused. NES is classified as an eating disorder rather than a parasomnia. It involves conscious, intentional eating episodes at night, often accompanied by insomnia and a lack of appetite during the day. Unlike SRED, individuals with NES are fully awake and aware during their eating episodes. Although both conditions involve nighttime eating, their underlying mechanisms and treatment approaches differ significantly.
Prevalence and Associated Conditions
SRED is relatively rare, affecting an estimated 1-5% of the general population. However, it is more common in people with pre-existing conditions such as sleepwalking, restless legs syndrome (RLS), and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Certain medications, particularly those affecting the central nervous system like antidepressants and sedative-hypnotics, can also trigger SRED. Research suggests that women and young adults are more susceptible to this condition.
Causes and Risks of Sleep-Related Eating Disorder
The exact causes of SRED remain unclear, but studies suggest it results from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Stress, poor sleep quality, and irregular sleep schedules can all act as triggers. Additionally, underlying sleep disorders, certain medications, and psychiatric conditions like anxiety or depression may increase the risk of SRED.
Potential Dangers of SRED:
- Physical Harm: Individuals may injure themselves during these episodes, such as cutting themselves while preparing food, choking on improperly chewed food, or ingesting harmful substances.
- Disrupted Sleep: SRED can also cause fragmented sleep, leading to excessive daytime sleepiness, reduced cognitive function, and a diminished quality of life.
Treatment Options for Sleep-Related Eating Disorder
Treating SRED typically involves a combination of behavioral and therapeutic approaches:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i): CBT-i combined with relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and improve sleep hygiene, which may alleviate symptoms.
- Consistent Sleep Schedule: Establishing a regular sleep pattern and addressing underlying sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, can also be effective.
- Behavioral Interventions: Safety measures, like locking the kitchen at night or removing access to potentially dangerous foods, can help manage the condition.
- Medications: In cases where behavioral approaches are not sufficient, medications may be prescribed.
Taking Control of Your Sleep Health
Sleep-Related Eating Disorder is a complex parasomnia that can significantly impact health and well-being. While it may be less known than other sleep disorders, its effects can be just as disruptive. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment can help individuals with SRED manage their condition and improve their overall sleep quality. Whether through behavioral strategies, therapy, or medical intervention, it is possible to regain control over sleep and break free from the challenges posed by SRED.
At DC Metro Therapy, we are behavioral sleep therapists and focus on treating a range of sleep conditions. For more sleep tips and insights into managing sleep disorders, contact us, check out our other blog posts and resources, or follow us on Instagram @dc.metro.therapy.
