2023-04-28 16:30:00
Sleep apnea, from its medical name obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHOS), affects 4% of the French population. This nocturnal breathing disorder is characterized by brief interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can last up to several minutes. Paying attention to your diet might help reduce the risk of suffering from it, according to an American study.
Diet impacts the risk of sleep apnea
To determine whether the quality of food had an impact on sleep disorders, the researchers questioned 1,298 people regarding their eating habits and their nights through a questionnaire. The average age of the participants in this work, published in Nutrients on April 25, 2023, was 48 years old. About 30% suffered from depression and more than 50% were obese. More than 4 in 10 had an increased risk of insomnia or sleep apnea.
Analysis of the data collected reveals that a better quality diet was associated with a lower risk of sleep apnea. Scientists have also found that people suffering from this disease, which is more common among seniors, tend to consume more red meat, fried foods and sugar.
Sleep apnea: rethink your plate to prevent it
Understanding the mechanisms of sleep apnea is important because this disorder can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and other health problems. “If diet is an important contributor to sleep disturbances, sleep interventions may be more effective by incorporating nutritional quality points,” the authors write in the article.
They add that if the specific impact of a healthy diet is confirmed by further research, it may be possible to improve the nights of people with sleep apnea by providing recipes and diet menus specific to their disorder.
How to improve the quality of your meals?
If you want to improve the quality of your diet, there are several steps you can take. First, try to increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in nutrients and fiber. Avoid foods that are processed or high in fat, salt, and sugar. Choose lean protein sources, such as fish and nuts, and limit your intake of red meat and cold cuts. Finally, make sure you are well hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day.
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