Abstract

BERNARDI, Fabiana; HARB, Ana Beatriz Cauduro; LEVANDOVSKI, Rosa Maria  and  HIDALGO, Maria Paz Loayza. Eating disorders and circadian eating pattern: a review. Rev. psiquiatr. Rio Gd. Sul [online]. 2009, vol.31, n.3, pp. 170-176. ISSN 0101-8108.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0101-81082009000300006.

This review aims at reviewing aspects related to eating disorders arising from changes in circadian rhythm. There was a systematic search in PubMed databases, using the following descriptors: eating disorders, circadian rhythm, night eating syndrome, binge eating disorder, and sleep patterns. Eating disorders, such as night eating syndrome and binge eating disorder, have been considered and related to a delay in circadian rhythm in food intake and impaired satiety. Circadian rhythms are those that show a period of 24 h, for example, sleep-wake cycle, body temperature, activity and eating behavior. Disorders related to changes in sleep-wake schedules influence the appetite, satiety and consequently food intake, which seems to increase such disorders. Circadian rhythm can influence eating behavior. However, more studies and knowledge about food rhythmicity might contribute to better understanding the current eating behavior, acting in prevention and/or treatment of eating disorders.

Keywords : Eating disorders; circadian rhythm; night eating syndrome; binge eating disorder; sleep patterns.