Did you know that there is a link between weight gain and sleep apnea? It all starts with a simple intrusion in your life in the form of snoring. Read this article and find out more about how weight gain leads to sleep apnea and vice versa.
Ignoring your snoring problem could lead to a serious sleep disorder known as sleep apnea. This disorder is characterized by the cessation of breathing during the night with such episodes occurring anywhere between 5-50 times an hour.
Weight Gain and Sleep Apnea - What's the Connection?
Wondering how weight gain could be linked to this condition? When you put on weight, it is not only around your waistline or thighs. You would invariably develop extra fat cells around your neck, throat and mouth and this tends to affect your breathing as well. This causes obstruction of the air passage and consequently, snoring. Over time it could develop into sleep apnea. Research has also revealed that people who are overweight or obese are at a greater risk of developing sleep apnea when compared to people who do not have any weight-related issues.
Hormones - The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Weight Gain
Did you know that your hormones could be responsible for increasing weight and consequently aggravate snoring and apnea issues? Your body produces an increased amount of the hormone Ghrelin when you lose sleep. This hormone stimulates hunger thereby leading you to eat more food and put on weight. Also when you sleep less, the levels of the hormone Leptin are reduced. This hormone is instrumental in communicating to your brain that you do not require any more food. In its absence you tend to eat more, hence gain more weight. Your body no longer burns calories at the rate at which it was earlier as well.
Lose Weight and Sleep Better
Although the reasons for this dangerous condition could be many, your increasing weight might be a main cause. Because the condition's symptoms are subtle, you might not even realize that you are suffering from it. However, if you notice increasing daytime sleepiness, dry mouth when you wake up, frequent urination at night, or even excessive, sudden weight gain, it is time to consider consulting a sleep specialist. Because of the increasing daytime drowsiness and fatigue, it is important to consume foods that boost the energy levels but do not add to your body weight. Be sure to take note of the calories you consume and also exercise to lose excess weight. Good meal planning is essential for planned weight loss and to help you deal with sleep apnea. Ensure you are consuming food in proper quantities and try to stay as healthy as possible when choosing the foods you eat. The the ideal weight for your height and body structure can only be determined by a health and fitness expert. Always consult a specialist before you embark on a weight loss program to lose weight and deal with your apnea problem.
Atlanta Snoring Institute specializes in snoring treatment and sleep apnea treatment, such as the The Pillar Procedure.
Stefano Grossi Atlanta Snoring Institute 770-389-0000