While many people consider buying the best supplements for sleep apnea, studies have found that taking steps to be proactive about your general health and making positive lifestyle changes may be more effective than even the most potent essential oils for sleep apnea.
Research has found that a diet high in plants, including nuts, whole grains, fruit, and vegetables, can reduce the likelihood of developing obstructive sleep apnea. In contrast, a diet high in sugar, salt, and refined carbohydrates can contribute to an increased prevalence of the condition.
Although there is no suggestion that switching to a 100% plant-based diet could cure or reverse sleep apnea, there is some evidence that indicates a link between nutrition and health. Incorporating plant-based foods is proven to help reduce the severity of symptoms and side effects such as fatigue, stress, and cardiovascular complications.
Plant Power and Sleep Apnea: The Basics
Depending on their general wellbeing and health, sleep apnea sufferers may have different symptoms and opportunities to adjust their diet, lifestyle, sleep routines, and bedtime environment. However, many people find that making intentional changes can prove an important part of their approach to promoting healthy nighttime breathing.
For example, you might use a peppermint oil sleep apnea diffuser to clear your airways, focus on higher levels of physical activity and movement during the day, and practice effective breathing techniques to reinforce a stronger, healthier airway, all of which could help with better sleep quality.
The connection between plant-based products and sleep apnea requires further research. Still, many specialists feel that dietary interventions can be key for people with obstructive sleep apnea who also have a suboptimal diet.
Plants factor into this because the natural antioxidants, lower fat content, and anti-inflammatory properties of many plants are used in reduced salt and reduced sugar diets and can contribute towards a more balanced nutritional profile. Therefore, eating a higher number of plants per day or swapping some heavily processed meals for plant-based alternatives may be beneficial, especially if you have identified deficiencies or higher amounts of saturated fats within your diet.
How to Introduce More Plant-Based Products Into Your Routine
While changes to your diet are one option, you can also look at alternative products and lifestyle adaptations to augment your lung function and respiratory efficiency and help lower the impacts of stress on your sleep. They could include:
- Stopping smoking and reducing alcohol intake
- Maintaining a healthy weight and committing to regular physical activity
- Reducing sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods
- Adding more fresh herbs and herbal teas into your routine
There are conflicting opinions, but some believe that herbs like valerian root, passionflower, and more familiar herbal teas like peppermint, chamomile, and lavender can help promote healthier nighttime breathing.
Other Ways to Help Boost Natural Breathing
Sleep apnea sufferers can consider many natural approaches, such as practicing the breathing routines we’ve mentioned, meditation to prepare for a relaxing night’s sleep, and changing their sleeping position–alongside following any prescribed medications or treatments recommended by their practitioner.
Should you intend to make changes or would like to introduce holistic medicines into your schedule, it’s always wise to consult your physician first. Some herbal teas and supplements are not advisable for specific groups of people, including those with underlying medical conditions and pregnant mothers.
However, by incorporating essential nutrients, sleep-promoting herbal teas, and a more plant-based diet, you may find that the positive impacts on your health and relaxation are also helpful in enhancing natural sleep. Further information and guidance are available in Sleep Apnea Solution, the latest publication from sleep apnea specialist Dr. Dylan Petkus. It outlines several ways to help overcome sleep apnea naturally!
