The Tedious Relationship Between Weight Gain & Sleep Apnea
Doesn’t gaining weight seem easier than losing it? Weight loss isn’t easy, and oftentimes unlikely factors, like genetics, play a role. Dr. Aragona understands that it’s hard to prioritize your health when you feel like you’re being pulled in every direction. Losing weight is a never-ending battle between you and your health, but it has the ability to transform your life.
Weight loss can be especially challenging for those of us who suffer from sleep apnea. Not only are sleep apnea patients more susceptible to gaining weight, but it can also negatively affect their relationships. On top of that, weight problems can advance other health problems, like cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes.
The Academy of Sciences found that insufficient sleep is considered an independent risk factor for weight gain and obesity. Comparatively, a 2004 study found evidence that changing sleep intervals may be a significant advancement in preventing and treating obesity.
Do CPAP Machines Cause Weight Gain?
CPAP machines are a standard treatment for sleep apnea. Nearly 80% of CPAP users don’t follow the suggested machine use each night because they can be noisy and uncomfortable.
In a 2015 study, Dr. Frank Domino discovered an increase in body-mass index and weight in CPAP users. This result is impartial to age, gender, baseline weight, CPAP compliance, and severity of sleep apnea.
The Power of Weight Loss
Losing weight is an impactful, long-term treatment for those who are overweight or obese and suffering from sleep apnea. A study published in 2010 found that weight loss has been supported by improvement in factors related to obesity and sleep apnea.
It’s crucial to change your lifestyle in order to fight symptoms of sleep apnea. Remarkably, weight loss is the first treatment emphasized by the American College of Physicians. It’s an essential component in reducing heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Aerobic & Enjoyable Exercise
Working out can be intimidating, tedious, and at times, frustrating. It’s hard to measure progress when you’re not seeing immediate change. Even so, exercise has the ability to boost your energy, give you confidence, and help you get a better night’s rest.
Start with aerobic exercises and workouts that are undemanding and fun. It may be easier to start your fitness journey and you’ll be more likely to continue them in the long-run. Whether you’re kicking a ball around or taking a dip in the lake, you’ll be stunned at what these activities, that feel like minimal exercise, will do for you.
All it takes is putting aside a few minutes to get up and start moving. You’ll find yourself gradually increasing minutes to hours, and eventually working out a few days a week. Think about what’s important to you, and start to envision what goals you want to accomplish. Wanting change is the first step in making a difference.
The Impact of a Healthy Diet
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends the Mediterranean diet as a healthy eating plan to promote health and prevent chronic disease, including sleep apnea. This simple diet can serve as a powerful tool towards a healthier lifestyle when combined with exercise.
It’s beneficial for heart health, improves sleep apnea symptoms, and can reduce the risk of Parkinson’s and cancer. The Mediterranean diet incorporates the basics of healthy eating with universal flavors and cooking techniques. The main ingredients include:
- Daily consumption of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats
- Weekly intake of fish, poultry, beans, and eggs
- Moderate portions of daily products
- Limited intake of red meat
And best of all, your friends and family can join in and find enjoyment in the meals you share. Throw away that brutal, itemized diet plan, and start monitoring what you eat and minimizing your calorie consumption. Combining that with dieting and exercise can transform your life.
Grab a pen and decide what you want to achieve. If you focus on what you want to gain, you’ll find a way to come out on top.
