A plant-based diet may be a useful strategy for snoring cessation, according to recent research. A healthy, plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts can reduce the risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), according to a study published this week in ERJ Open Research. Individuals suffering from sleep apnea frequently wake up during the night because their breathing stops frequently. They also snore loudly.
In addition to fatigue, sleep apnea can increase the following health risks:
- high blood pressure
- stroke
- heart disease
- type 2 diabetes
According to the study, those consuming the highest percentage of plant-based foods had a 19% lower risk of developing OSA than those consuming the lowest percentage. A mostly vegetarian diet was also associated with a lower risk. Although eating a plant-based diet seems to help prevent snoring, food quality seems to be the most important factor. The study also discovered that individuals with OSA are more likely to eat an unhealthy plant-based diet that is high in refined carbohydrates, sugary drinks, high-sugar, and high-salt foods.
The Link Between Snoring and a Plant-Based Diet Explored:
A plant-based diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts may help treat sleep apnea because of how it reduces inflammation.
On the other hand, a poor plant-based diet rich in refined carbohydrates, sweetened beverages, and foods high in salt and sugar can lead to throat irritation. Diets heavy in salt and sugar, in particular, can throw off the body’s fluid balance. According to Gartenberg, this can result in swelling throughout the body, especially in the head and neck, which raises the possibility of breathing problems, worsened snoring, and obstruction of the airways during sleep. Additionally, choosing healthier foods can help combat obesity, which is one of the main risk factors for sleep apnea.
“A plant-based diet addresses the risks of inflammation and obesity by promoting a healthy weight and reducing inflammation in the upper airway,” says Gartenberg. “As a result, these healthy foods can reduce some of the factors that contribute to airway obstruction, thereby making it easier to breathe during sleep.”
Given this information, he says it’s possible that a healthy plant-based diet could theoretically reduce your risk of reflux-related sleep apnea.
Dietary Adjustments for Snoring Reduction Explored
However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that the results of this study do not always imply that an OSA-related healthy meat-based diet would not have a similar effect. Gartenberg claims that further investigation is required to provide a response. Making healthier decisions appears to have a positive impact, though, and this could be beneficial for your general health and wellbeing.
Not only can obstructive sleep apnea be disruptive, but it also carries significant health risks. According to the study’s findings, choosing healthier foods may help avoid it. Whether you must only eat plant-based foods to reap the benefits is still up for debate.
