Sleep Eating: A Rare but Dangerous Disorder
You've probably heard of people talking or even walking in their sleep — and not remembering anything about it when they wake up.
But did you know that some people also eat in their sleep?
A health condition called "sleep-related eating disorder" (or SRED) causes some people to eat — and sometimes even cook food — while they are still asleep. And like people who talk or walk in their sleep, sleep eaters usually don't remember it when they wake up.
Eating, walking or talking in your sleep are all types of parasomnia — a disorder that involves some kind of abnormal behavior or experience while sleeping. But while sleep eating is relatively rare, and not as common as sleepwalking, experts say it can be one of the most difficult parasomnias to live with.
Sleep eating can happen several times in one night, even if people aren't actually hungry. It can make people feel tired during the day, take away their appetite for regular meals and cause them to gain weight.
They may also eat things that aren't actually food — like cigarettes or soap. And it can be dangerous too. Some people hurt themselves when using kitchen knives or cooking — or accidentally start a fire.
The causes of sleep eating can be different for different people, but people are more likely to have it if they aren't getting enough sleep. For some people it might be caused by a medication they are taking, or by stress, or by another mental problem. People are also more likely to have it if they already suffer from another parasomnia — like sleepwalking.
How to deal with the problem will depend on each person's situation, but a doctor might suggest relaxation techniques to reduce stress, changing a medication that might be causing the problem, or talking to a sleep specialist.
Locking fridges and cupboards may also help keep people safe.
