Many sleep apnea patients experience being in a low-intensity inflammatory state, which is believed to be triggered by altered lung ventilation and low concentrations of oxygen. As such, several healthcare professionals believe that sleep apnea could be better managed by applying methods to treat inflammation.
Are there natural remedies for sleep apnea that could also target inflammation? Yes! Some herbs and oils that could help with sleep apnea can also act as an anti-inflammatory remedy. At the same time, practices such as sleep apnea yoga exercises could also aid in lowering inflammation in the body.
In this article, we’ll break down the relationship between sleep apnea and inflammation and share tips on how to reduce both conditions with natural approaches.
The Relationship Between Sleep Apnea and Inflammation
Sleep apnea and inflammation are generally linked, with studies showing that sleep apnea patients often experience elevated signs of inflammation. This can affect other complications related to the disorder, such as obesity, metabolic dysfunction, and other cardiovascular issues.
Notably, sleep apnea-caused inflammation is also believed to be linked with cognitive issues. One study says that this discovery could be pivotal in how the side effects could be addressed in the future, suggesting that anti-inflammatory substances might be a novel approach to sleep apnea.
Other studies show that the relationship between sleep apnea and inflammation is reversed. One experiment concluded that the severity of sleep apnea correlates with high levels of inflammation.
However, based on results from observed patients, it was found that inflammation originating from increased weight happens before the development of sleep apnea, rather than as a result of the condition. This highlights the importance of diet and weight loss, and how they could reduce the severity of sleep apnea.
How to Reduce Inflammation in Sleep Apnea Patients
Many of the most effective ways to help reduce inflammation are related to diet and lifestyle. High-quality anti-inflammatory diets don’t just target problems with inflammation–they may also lower sleep apnea risks and the severity of the disorder’s symptoms. Here are some ways to improve your overall eating habits and behaviors to reduce sleep apnea-related inflammation:
Focus on Whole Foods
Anti-inflammatory diets are grounded on eating whole, unprocessed food. Increase your intake of whole grains, lean proteins, and fruits and vegetables. Avoid consuming processed and refined products.
Eat Food High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids are great in combating inflammation as omega-3 modulates the body’s inflammatory response. Examples of food in this category include fatty fish, seeds, and nuts.
Incorporate Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices aren’t just there to flavor your food–they also have anti-inflammatory properties that could support inflammation reduction. Stock up on turmeric, ginger, garlic, and cloves and find ways to incorporate those spices into your meals.
Don’t Forget to Hydrate
Staying hydrated can aid your body’s natural way to detoxify itself, getting rid of inflammatory properties. Drink at least eight cups of water a day, prioritizing them over sugary drinks, alcohol, and coffee.
Natural Sleep Apnea Remedies to Help Inflammation
Besides diet and lifestyle, there are several other natural ways to help overcome sleep apnea and any symptoms of inflammation that may come with it. Check out our guide for enhancing natural sleep or get our Sleep Apnea Solution book to learn more!
