Is There a Link Between Sleep Apnea and Metabolic Health?
Sleep apnea and metabolic health are closely connected, as this condition not only disrupts your nights but also significantly affects your bodily functions. Understanding this is crucial for enhancing overall well-being and addressing its far-reaching impact on your health.
At eos dental sleep, we offer personalized alternatives to CPAP therapy, such as oral appliance therapy (OAT). These custom mouth guards are a clinically proven solution for snoring and sleep apnea, designed to prevent airway obstruction and improve breathing. With extensive experience in OAT, we ensure tailored care and help navigate insurance options.
How Sleep Apnea Affects Metabolic Health
Sleep apnea, particularly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), interferes with your body’s ability to regulate vital processes. During episodes of OSA, oxygen levels drop, triggering stress responses in the body. Over time, this disrupts metabolic function, leading to conditions such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Studies reveal that up to 70% of individuals with OSA also struggle with obesity.
The Relationship Between Sleep Apnea and Weight Gain
Chronic poor sleep from OSA can alter your hormone levels, particularly ghrelin and leptin, which regulate hunger and fullness. This imbalance increases cravings for high-calorie foods and makes it harder to maintain a healthy weight. Addressing sleep apnea with effective treatment can be the first step in breaking this cycle.
Understanding the Link Between Sleep Apnea and Insulin Resistance
Repeated oxygen deprivation caused by OSA increases stress hormone production, particularly cortisol, which interferes with insulin function. This connection explains why individuals with untreated sleep apnea are at a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Treating OSA has been shown to lower cortisol levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
Managing Obesity-Related Sleep Apnea for Better Health
Excess weight around the neck and throat can worsen sleep apnea by restricting airflow during sleep. However, managing sleep apnea can also help patients achieve better weight management. At eos dental sleep, we offer oral appliance therapy — a non-invasive and effective solution that improves both sleep quality and overall metabolic health.
Improve Your Metabolic Health with eos dental sleep
At eos dental sleep in Philadelphia, we combine cutting-edge technology with a patient-focused approach to treat sleep apnea and its effects on metabolic health. Our team ensures every treatment plan is tailored to fit your lifestyle and goals. Contact us at (215) 241-0700 to start your journey toward better sleep and improved health.