dr. carlos schepg is one of the experts in sleep research.he first to study sleep related sleeping disorder. >> it's a mixed state of sleep. it's a disassociated state. humans can be partially awake and partially asleep. >> reporter: the problem may begin in one key part of the brain known as the frontal lobe. >> the frontal lobe is the seat of judgment. studies show during sleep the frontal lobe is shut down. >> reporter: while the frontal lobe is asleep, the rest of the brain may become more active and direct the sleep eater to immediately seek food. >> they get up, see their environment, they know where the kitchen is, they have no inhibition and that's their problem. >> reporter: during her worst period she gained 60 pounds during her sleep eating. she has had to deal hypertension and high cholesterol. the compulsion to eat goes beyond food. at home anna and her husband kenny lock cabinets, because a sleep eater's diet can become surprisingly diverse. my nephews found me eating an sos pad. scouring pad that has a detergent in it. >> repor