What you eat affects the quality of rest you get because different food groups either keep you awake or make you drowsy. Concurrently, a good night’s sleep helps lower stress hormones that cause cravings and stress eating, allowing for more mindful food consumption. Understanding the link between the two allows you to be careful of what you eat, which can help during obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) treatment programs.
When it gets dark, your brain produces a sleep hormone called melatonin that tells the body it’s time to wind down. Things that expose you to artificial light, like phone screens and brightly lit rooms, affect your ability to fall asleep naturally because it hinders that process.
The good news is that certain produce, meat, and drinks high in omega-3 and antioxidants can increase the sleep hormone, so you can doze off quickly. Consider including the following in your meals before bed:
If you’re having trouble sleeping, being more mindful of what you eat and how you prepare for bed will help immensely. Stay away from stimulants like food high in sugar and caffeine, as they trigger adrenaline and cortisol hormones that alert the whole body. These include:
Meanwhile, saturated fat found in meats and processed food can exacerbate indigestion and weight gain, causing other sleep disorders like night sweats and snoring. Avoid excess fat in the following foods:
At Sleep Better Wisconsin, we provide obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) treatment through oral appliance therapy. While on the program, consult your primary care doctor regarding a nutrition plan to best suit your condition and needs.
