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3 Foods That Worsen Sleep Apnea Symptoms

December 12, 2024

Shrimp cocktail

Sleep apnea can have a significant, negative impact on your day to day life. Fortunately, there are lifestyles changes that can be made to help reduce sleep apnea symptoms and improve overall rest. In fact, the food that you are eating can impact the quality of sleep that you have. Continue reading to learn about some of the foods out there that can negatively impact your sleep apnea and what you can swap them out for.

Foods That Worsen Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Fatty Meat

Consuming lots of fatty red meat, pork, and lamb can increase inflammation in other parts of your body. Since people with sleep apnea are already at an increased risk of cardiovascular and respiratory health issues, eating fatty meats can heighten this risk further.

Bananas

Bananas are full of healthy fiber and potassium – both being necessary for excellent overall health. That being said, if you have sleep apnea, banana may not be the best snack option for you. Bananas increase mucus production in the mouth and throat, worsening breathing problems associated with obstructive sleep apnea.

High-Fat Dairy Products

Whole cream, milk, and certain cheeses have similar effects as bananas, increasing your mucus production and making it more difficult to breathe. Eating these products in excess can also cause weight gain – one of the leading risk factors of obstructive sleep apnea.

Which Foods Promote Healthy Sleep

Melatonin-Rich Foods

You have heard of melatonin supplements that are sold over the counter. However, you may not know that plenty of fruits and vegetables contain melatonin. Some excellent options include cherries, corn, asparagus, tomatoes, and cucumbers.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids help your body naturally procedure melatonin. You can find these acids in seafood, like salmon, tuna, and shrimp. If you don’t like seafood or can’t eat it, ask your doctor if you would benefit from omega-3 supplements. This way, you can promote a higher quality, more restful sleep.

Tryptophan

Tryptophan is an amino acid that triggers your body to make serotonin. This serotonin is eventually converted into melatonin. This is the reason why you may start to feel sleepy after eating a big meal. Foods, like turkey, chicken, fish, beans, and nuts, contain lots of tryptophan, preparing your body to rest.

If you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, it’s important to seek professional help. By getting a diagnosis and beginning treatment as well as being mindful of the foods you are consuming, you can work towards a more peaceful slumber.

About the Author

Dr. Jeff Rodgers is an experienced sleep expert who has been in private practice for more than two decades. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and the American Sleep and Breathing Academy. To learn more about sleep apnea or to schedule an appointment at his office in Dunwoody, visit his website or call 770) 394-4310.