Can Sleep Apnea Really Cause Weight Gain The Science Explained
Many people associate sleep apnea with loud snoring or occasional tiredness, but the truth is more complex. One important yet often overlooked link is between sleep apnea and weight gain. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can sleep apnea contribute to weight gain?”, you're not alone. Many individuals are skeptical and seek a clear, evidence-based explanation of how a sleep disorder could impact metabolism, hunger hormones, and, ultimately, weight management. Let’s take a closer look. What Is Sleep Apnea? Before delving into how it can affect weight, let’s first define sleep apnea. It is a condition where your breathing repeatedly pauses and resumes during sleep. The most prevalent type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the muscles in the throat relax, blocking the airway. This disruption deprives your body of oxygen during sleep, preventing restorative rest. Over time, it can cause symptoms like daytime fatigue, irritability, headaches, brain fog, and challenges with weight manag...