Eating Disorders and Sleep
Eating disorders and sleep are deeply connected as those who struggle with eating disorders often experience significant sleep disturbances. In this blog post we will explore the relationship between eating disorders and sleep and offer five tips for improving your sleep.
Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia and binge eating disorder can all disrupt sleep. Studies have shown that individuals with eating disorders often have difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep and experience frequent awakenings throughout the night. In addition, eating disorders can also lead to the development of other sleep disorders, such as insomnia and sleep apnea.
One reason for this connection is that eating disorders can cause physical discomfort and pain which can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Also, anxiety and depression, which are common in those with eating disorders, can interfere with sleep. Finally, the irregular eating patterns and extreme hunger or fullness associated with eating disorders can disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to poor sleep quality.
5 Tips to Improve Sleep
While it can feel challenging to improve your sleep when struggling with an eating disorder, there are several things you can implement in your life that can help:
- Establish a regular sleep schedule: Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day can help regulate the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up.
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Engaging in calming activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques can help prepare your mind and body for sleep.
- Limit exposure to electronics: The blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with your body’s natural production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. Avoiding electronics in the hours leading up to bedtime can improve sleep quality.
- Create a sleep-conducive environment: Ensure that your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet and invest in comfortable bedding and pillows to create a comfortable sleeping environment.
- Seek professional help: Eating disorders and sleep disturbances can be complex and difficult to manage alone. Seeking professional help from a therapist such as Nancy from Teoma Health can help address the underlying issues and improve your sleep.
With the right tools and support, it is possible to improve your sleep quality and overall wellbeing. By establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, limiting exposure to electronics, creating a sleep-conducive environment and seeking professional help, those with eating disorders can take steps towards better sleep and improved health.
Please Contact Nancy to discuss your own sleep issues and how she can help.