The Relationship Between Night Eating Syndrome, Sleep Quality, and Nutrition: An Analysis of Meal-Based Nutrient Intake

OpenAlex İngilizce

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between Night Eating Syndrome (NES), sleep quality, and energy and macronutrient intake in young adults aged 18-24 years. In this cross-sectional design, NES status was assessed using the Night Eating Questionnaire, while sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Dietary intake was collected via 24-hour dietary recall and categorised into main meals, snacks and night meals. Individuals with NES reported significantly higher total daily intakes of energy, protein, carbohydrate and saturated fat (p < 0.05), with night meals contributing most to this increase. Linear regression analysis showed that night-time energy intake (β = 0.0075; p < 0.001), PSQI score (β = 0.4606; p = 0.0019) and age (β = -0.4463; p = 0.0048) were significant predictors of NES severity. These findings highlight the multifactorial nature of NES and the need to consider both sleep quality and the timing of nutrient intake in its assessment and management. Future longitudinal and interventional studies are required to explore causal pathways and develop targeted strategies for prevention and treatment, particularly in young adult populations at increased risk.