Caffeine is a known stimulant, which is why many people regularly consume coffee in the morning to feel more awake. However, those with sleep apnea should be cautious about consuming caffeine, because it could possibly make it even more difficult to fall–and stay–asleep at night.
Fortunately, you don’t have to give up coffee if you have sleep apnea, but you should consume it responsibly and avoid having it close to bedtime.
If you also utilize sleep apnea treatment using natural remedies and practice healthy sleep habits for sleep apnea, you may be able to continue enjoying your daily cup of joe as usual!
How Caffeine Affects Sleep Apnea
Caffeine is a natural stimulant. It blocks a sleep-producing chemical called ‘adenosine,’ which builds up during the time you’re awake so that your body can be ready for sleep at night. When adenosine is blocked, you feel much more alert and might have more difficulty feeling sleepy at bedtime.
Positive Effects
It’s widely accepted among medical experts that caffeine stimulates the senses, and thus could negatively affect those with sleep apnea. However, that’s not as black and white as we think it is.
Some studies show that caffeine could improve the cognitive function of people with obstructive sleep apnea. Moreover, no apparent connections have been made between coffee and impaired breathing caused by sleep apnea. Interestingly, doctors may even prescribe caffeine to premature babies to reduce interrupted breathing during slumber.
Negative Effects
However, most sleep apnea patients are advised to stay away from caffeine. If you drink coffee too close to bedtime, you alert the body, making it more difficult to fall asleep. Plus, you might stimulate feelings of anxiety and restlessness, which could further aggravate your condition.
One of the symptoms of sleep apnea and inflammation is daytime drowsiness. Because of this, many sleep apnea patients become over-reliant on coffee to stay awake when the sun is up. This dependency creates a cycle of sleeplessness at night and fatigue during the day, complicating your disorder.
Is Caffeine Okay for Sleep Apnea?
Avoiding caffeine may be a good idea for individuals who want to manage their condition. Without the stimulant, you can better train your body to follow its natural rhythms for sleep and wake. That said, you don’t have to give up coffee completely. Regular caffeine intake is still possible if you do it responsibly.
How Much Caffeine Can I Drink?
If you can’t live without your daily cup of joe, make sure to enjoy it in moderation. Limit the amount of caffeine you consume during the day, being mindful about what time you drink it. The best time to have coffee is typically early in the day, and it should be enjoyed with a meal.
How Long Before Bed Should I Stop Drinking Caffeine?
It’s recommended to stop drinking caffeine at least two hours before bedtime. This gives your body enough time to adjust to your sleep routine and wind down for the night.
Caffeine and Sleep Apnea
If you drink coffee and find that it disrupts your sleep regularly–even if you consume caffeine responsibly–you may want to further limit your consumption or stop it altogether. Otherwise, it may be helpful to apply some natural approaches to managing sleep apnea.
Learn more by reading our guide on enhancing natural sleep or getting our Sleep Apnea Solution book today!
