6 Foods to Avoid If You Have Sleep Apnea

If you have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), there are lots of options for treatment. Along with sleep apnea treatment from Dr. Jessica Singh at Burbank Dental & Sleep, making lifestyle changes can go a long way toward relieving the symptoms of OSA. Things like quitting smoking, losing weight, or even avoiding certain foods may help you treat the symptoms of sleep apnea, or eliminate it altogether. So, what should you avoid eating if you have sleep apnea? Here are six of the top foods you should avoid for a more restful, healthy night of sleep.

1. Dairy Products That Are High In Fat

High-fat dairy products like sour cream, whole milk, and some types of cheese are thought to thicken mucus. This doesn’t happen to everyone, but if you notice that your throat seems thicker after consuming high-fat dairy, you may want to cut back on your intake of dairy. High-fat dairy products also contain lots of calories, and weight gain is associated with a higher risk of sleep apnea, so cutting down on calories is always a good thing.

2. Bananas

In some people, bananas act as a “histamine liberator.” In other words, bananas can lead to a sort of allergic reaction that may cause inflammation of the airway and congestion. This is, of course, a bad thing if you have sleep apnea, since a congested airway leads to a higher risk of apnea.

3. Foods High In Saturated Fat

Many foods high in saturated fat, particularly red or fatty meats, can lead to inflammation throughout the body. Some examples of these foods include hamburgers, hot dogs, steak, lamb, pork, bacon, and sausage. 

Eating lots of these foods could cause inflammation and contribute to sleep apnea. Like all other high-fat foods, they also could contribute to weight gain, heart disease, and other similar health conditions, so they should always be consumed in moderation.

4. Foods That Causes Heartburn Or Acid Reflux

Everyone is different, and has different triggers for acid reflux and heartburn. Some people can handle spicy and acidic foods, while others can’t. If you do have heartburn or acid reflux, avoiding “trigger foods” can also help with your sleep apnea.

Acid reflux and sleep apnea are closely linked. Improper breathing at night can lead to increased pressure, which makes the contents of the stomach more likely to go back up the esophagus, causing heartburn.

5. Soda And Drinks That Contain Caffeine

In general, sugary soda is very bad for your overall health and oral health. It’s full of empty calories and is highly acidic. Lots of soda also contains caffeine, which may make it harder to get a restful night of sleep.

We recommend cutting out soda completely if you have sleep apnea. And if you drink other caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea, it’s best to stop drinking them at least six hours before you go to bed.

6. Alcohol 

Excessive alcohol use is associated with a higher risk of sleep apnea. Alcohol can negatively influence your normal breathing patterns, lead to shallow breathing, and relax the muscles and tissue in your airway, leading to sleep apnea. Cutting back on alcohol use or completely quitting alcohol use may help you get relief from the symptoms of sleep apnea.

Get Professional Help For Sleep Apnea – Visit Burbank Dental & Sleep

At Burbank Dental & Sleep, Dr. Jessica Singh is an expert in sleep apnea treatment. With treatment like orthodontics, oral surgery, or oral appliance therapy (OAT), you can treat your apnea, get restful sleep, and protect your long-term health. Don’t wait. Contact us online or give us a call at (818) 842-0709 to schedule a consultation for sleep apnea treatment in Burbank, CA today.

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Great staff, from the front desk / back office, hygienist and dentist. Operating under current safety procedures while using the latest tools for your comfort and peace of mind - highly recommend this dental office for all your needs.

Greg E

Great dentist. Very thoughtful, understanding of circumstances, explains everything in a way I can understand and thorough in every procedure.

Charley

I really like going to Dr. Singh. And I really love the dental hygienist Julie and her assistant. I always have a great experience going there. They're always very friendly and welcoming. Phyllis at the front desk is great.

Vivian

I have been coming here for over 40 years and it is the best dental office!! Phyllis is always pleasant and nice. Bernie has been cleaning my teeth as long as I can remember ! No one is better!! Always painless!! Love her!!

Carrie

Dr. Singh is very good. I have been going to various dentist for a very long time and so far she has been the best one. I have had a minimum of 7 different dentists over the years and she really has reduced the pain of dental procedures that I have had by a large portion. Really recommend her.

Douglas

Best Dentist office ever! I've been coming here for over 40 years and have never had a bad experience . I was hesitant when Dr Singh took over but I couldn't be happier! She brought in state-of-the-art equipment, she is very thorough and personable and makes you feel very comfortable.

Louise

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