If you have sleep apnea, you already have a hard enough time staying asleep and getting a good night’s rest. Now studies are showing that certain foods can make your symptoms worse! While you’re probably not excited to hear that you may want to restrict your diet, avoiding these treats could very well help you feel more rested and ready for the day ahead. Keep reading for a simple list of foods you might not want to consume.
Bananas
Bananas are a great source of potassium – and their mild flavor makes them a perfect late-night snack. However, there’s a reason your mouth feels kind of funky after eating one. This yummy fruit actually increases the mucus content in your mouth and throat! If your sleep apnea is caused by airway blockage, having more viscus slime in your oral cavity isn’t going to help.
Carbs and Sugar
Why are carbs and sugar always on the “do-not-eat” list? It’s sad but true: these addictive substances will likely have you waking up more often during the night. Refined carbohydrates break down into sugar, and sugar can trigger your body’s inflammatory response. Swollen oral tissue will obstruct your airway just as easily as thick mucus.
Fatty Meat
While the myth about turkey making you sleepy is actually true, fatty meats often have the opposite effect. Since they’re high in saturated fat, options like bacon, pork, ground beef, and chicken thighs will also increase inflammation.
Too Much Alcohol
Drinking some alcohol before bed can help you feel warm and lethargic – two great conditions for falling into a deep sleep. Too much alcohol, however, will relax your throat muscles to the point where they’re blocking your airway. You also might find yourself waking up for frequent trips to the bathroom. Consume alcohol carefully and pay special attention to how your body feels so you know when it’s time to stop.
Adjusting your eating habits can help you avoid unpleasant sleep. That said, it probably won’t treat your symptoms the same way an oral appliance or CPAP machine can. Talk to your sleep dentist about your apnea occurrences. They’ll help you find the right balance between healthy living and active treatment!
About the Practice
Dr. Alexandra Kulwin and Dr. Jasmina Maric are both proud members of the American Dental Association. As compassionate dentists, they like to stay up to date with continuing education efforts. Advanced training helps them hone their skills and provide quality services for their patients! If you’re looking for sleep apnea treatment in Cincinnati, Dr. Kulwin and Dr. Maric would be happy to talk with you about your symptoms. To contact their office, call 513-648-9900.