Working out and eating a healthy diet are two great ways to lose weight and get fit, but what if they don’t work? Many people living with sleep apnea struggle with the inability to lose weight because of their sleep disorder. They also live with its many dangerous side effects. But, how does sleep apnea affect your waistline? Dr. Endsley helps treats patients living with sleep apnea in Waco and the surrounding areas.
What Contributes to Weight Gain?
In many cases, the primary causes of weight gain are unhealthy food and a sedentary lifestyle. But, here’s how sleep apnea factors in.
When you have sleep apnea, your body is not getting the rest and restoration it needs to function each day. This means you’re tired! When you are tired, you may be more likely to reach for fast or convenience foods instead of cooking healthy meals. You may also be more apt to sit instead of heading to the gym to work out.
Another thing that happens when you’re tired is you may misinterpret feeling fatigued for being hungry, leading you to reach for snacks.
You may also be more reliant on energy drinks and caffeine, which can contribute to weight issues, too.
Bigger-Picture Impacts
Many people living with sleep apnea have a higher risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and changes to their libido, frequent headaches, depression, anxiety and mood swings. These conditions often require medications for treatment, which can negatively affect the metabolism – which makes you gain weight.
Sleep apnea also makes your body insulin resistant, making it harder to manage your blood sugar – and that increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The Never-Ending Cycle
If you are gaining weight, it can make your sleep apnea worse, which can lead to more health problems and additional weight gain. So, what can you do? One of the first things you can do is take your health back by calling 254-799-9540 and scheduling an appointment with Dr. Sean Endsley in Waco, Texas.
Dr. Endsley can help to treat your sleep apnea so that you can get a more restful night’s sleep. Once you are more rested, you will feel better and have more energy, which can lead to improved overall health and weight loss with a regular exercise regimen and healthy eating.
Let’s talk. Call us now to schedule a consultation. We’d love to hear from you!