Can Sleep Apnea Cause Weight Gain?

Sleep apnea, a condition characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, has been gaining increasing attention in recent years. Beyond the well-documented health risks associated with sleep apnea, such as cardiovascular problems and daytime fatigue, there's a lesser-known concern that many individuals may not be aware of—weight gain. At South Florida ENT Associates (SFENTA), we believe in providing comprehensive care and information to our patients. In this blog, we will explore the intriguing relationship between sleep apnea and weight gain, shedding light on how SFENTA can help you manage both.

What Sleep Apnea Is

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. It causes breathing pauses or shallow breaths during sleep. These pauses can last for several seconds or even minutes and occur several times per hour.

There are two main types of sleep apnea:

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): This is the most common type of sleep apnea caused by a blockage in the airway. Excess tissue in the throat, enlarged tonsils, or a misaligned jaw can cause the blockage.
Central sleep apnea (CSA): This type of sleep apnea is caused by a failure of the brain to signal the muscles to breathe. Certain medical conditions, such as heart failure or stroke, can cause this.

The Sleep Apnea-Weight Gain Connection

Studies have shown that people with sleep apnea are more likely to gain weight over time and have a higher body mass index (BMI) than those without the disorder.

One reason why sleep apnea may cause weight gain is due to disrupted sleep patterns. People with sleep apnea often experience frequent awakenings at night, leading to poor sleep quality and reduced slow-wave (deep) sleep, critical for metabolic processes and weight regulation.

Another reason is that disrupted sleep can lead to hormonal changes that increase appetite and decrease metabolism. When we don't get enough sleep, our bodies produce more of the hormone ghrelin, which stimulates hunger, and less of the hormone leptin, which signals fullness. This can lead to overeating and weight gain.

Sleep apnea may also contribute to fatigue and decreased physical activity. People with sleep apnea may feel tired and lethargic during the day, making exercising and staying active difficult. This can lead to a decrease in energy expenditure and an increase in weight gain.

Finally, sleep apnea may cause weight gain indirectly by contributing to other health problems that can lead to weight gain. For example, sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes, all of which can contribute to weight gain. People with these health problems may be less likely to exercise and more likely to consume unhealthy foods, which can lead to weight gain.

What Can You Do If You Have Sleep Apnea And Want To Lose Weight?

If you have sleep apnea and want to lose weight, there are several things you can do:

Make lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and sleeping on your side
Use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine that delivers air pressure to keep your airway open during sleep
Eat a healthy diet focused on whole, nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week, such as walking, biking, or swimming
Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night
Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises