What is a common behavior among individuals with night eating syndrome?

Individuals with night eating syndrome often exhibit the behavior of consuming a significant amount of food during the evening hours and may not feel hungry in the morning. This pattern typically develops as a coping mechanism for emotional distress or may be linked to disruptions in the circadian rhythm. Nighttime eating can include binge-like episodes, where individuals consume high-calorie foods, and this behavior can contribute to weight gain and negative impacts on mental health.

In contrast, behaviors such as binge eating during the day or eating less than usual do not align with the characteristics of night eating syndrome, as the hallmark feature is specifically excessive nighttime eating. Likewise, purging after meals is associated with other eating disorders, such as bulimia nervosa, and is not a defining characteristic of night eating syndrome. Understanding this pattern helps to identify potential interventions and support for individuals struggling with this condition.