Nocturnal Eating Drinking Syndrome, also known as NEDS, is a condition where individuals consume food and beverages during the night. The correct spelling of the word "nocturnal" is /nɒkˈtɜː.nəl/, with the stress on the second syllable. "Eating" is spelled /ˈiː.tɪŋ/ with the stress on the first syllable, while "drinking" is spelled /ˈdrɪŋ.kɪŋ/ with the stress on the second syllable. The word "syndrome" is spelled /ˈsɪn.drəʊm/, with the stress on the first syllable. The correct spelling of the condition's acronym, NEDS, is /nɛdz/.
Nocturnal Eating Drinking Syndrome, also referred to as Night Eating Syndrome (NES), is a medical disorder characterized by an abnormal eating pattern during the night. Individuals with this condition typically consume a significant portion of their daily caloric intake after the evening meal, with frequent episodes of awakening from sleep to eat and drink.
This syndrome is often accompanied by a lack of appetite during the daytime and disrupted sleep patterns, including difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. People affected by Nocturnal Eating Drinking Syndrome may experience feelings of guilt, shame, or loss of control during these nighttime eating episodes.
The exact cause of Nocturnal Eating Drinking Syndrome remains unclear, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. The disorder is often associated with stress, depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, and some medications.
The diagnosis of Nocturnal Eating Drinking Syndrome is typically made based on the individual's self-reported symptoms, sleep logs, and a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. Treatment approaches may include a combination of dietary modifications, psychological therapy, and medication depending on the severity of the condition.
It is important to note that Nocturnal Eating Drinking Syndrome can have negative impacts on an individual's physical and mental health, and seeking professional help is crucial for its management.