Lack of sleep causes ‘munchies-like’ binge eating

Lack of sleep can make tempting snacks irresistible due to an effect scientists compare with the “marijuana munchies”.

Sleep-deprived study volunteers who had already eaten had an uncontrollable urge to consume “highly palatable” snacks such as biscuits, sweets, and crisps.

Lead researcher Dr Erin Hanlon, from the University of Chicago, said: “We found that sleep restriction boosts a signal that may increase the hedonic aspect of food intake, the pleasure and satisfaction gained from eating.”