Menu

Call Today:

Sleep Apnea and Weight Gain

Is a lack of sleep thwarting your best weight loss efforts? There is much evidence to suggest that a lack of sleep goes hand-in-hand with weight gain. But first, it is important to address why you aren't sleeping well. Is your stress level or caffeine intake to blame? Or is your sleeplessness due to a common but very serious condition called sleep apnea? Sleep apnea can affect weight loss, hunger and hormone activity in a number of ways, thwarting your best efforts to maintain a healthy weight.

Simply put, sleep apnea happens when breathing is obstructed or ceases altogether while sleeping. Symptoms of the condition range from light snoring to waking up several times during the night, gasping for air. The most common form of sleep apnea - obstructive sleep apnea - affects approximately six percent of the population. But this number is expected to rise along with the increasing rate of obesity, because obesity is a chief cause of obstructive sleep apnea.

To make matters worse, those who are already overweight may gain weight more easily if they aren't getting adequate sleep, fueling a vicious cycle. Several theories attempt to explain why a lack of sleep may encourage us to pack on the pounds. Some say that a sleep-deprived person simply doesn't have the energy to be active during the day. They're too tired to get to the gym or even take the stairs, burning far fewer calories than a well-rested individual would. Others believe the sleep-deprived attempt to make up for a lack of energy by consuming a greater number of calories. Additional evidence surrounding sleep deprivation and weight gain suggests the problem may be hormonal.

Hormone function is largely responsible for the way in which fat cells respond to the food we eat. Cortisol is a hormone that is usually released in response to emotional and physical stress. When we don't get enough sleep, cortisol is released at an increased rate, making us feel hungry even if we've eaten enough.

And just because sleep apnea is most common among adults, do not assume that children are exempt from the problem. It's no secret that the number of obese children is rising steadily; and it's no stretch to imagine that some of these children will develop sleep apnea.

If you're having trouble sleeping on a regular basis, you may be suffering from sleep apnea. Otherwise, a few simple tips and tricks just might help get you back on a regular sleep schedule. If you are already obese and suffering from sleep apnea, your chiropractor can discuss a sensible dieting plan with you, helping you return to a healthy weight and enjoy more restful, unobstructed sleep. And of course, never underestimate the importance of exercise. Exercising three to four times per week is crucial for restful sleep. And getting your workout in long before bedtime is helpful, leaving ample time for your heart rate and hormone levels to return to a resting state. Make sure your room is dark and the temperature of the room will remain comfortable throughout the night. If you're one of those people trying to squeeze extra tasks and activities into your day, leave more for tomorrow and get some sleep. Adequate sleep will increase your productivity during waking hours.

Location

Find us on the map

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

9:00 am - 12:00 pm

2:30 pm - 6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am - 12:00 pm

2:30 pm - 6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am - 12:00 pm

2:30 pm - 6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am - 12:00 pm

2:30 pm - 6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Closed

Saturday:

By Appt.

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Closed

Testimonials

Reviews By Our Satisfied Patients

  • "These chiropractors are top notch. This is a clean, professional office offering outstanding care. Dr. Gerry got my back adjusted and back in working order with only a few treatments however, the relief after the first appointment was immediate. I can't say enough great things about this office."
    Eddie W
  • "This’s a great place.
    Very clean and very friendly staff ! Dr Cassie has worked miracles on me also she helped a lot when I was pregnant. Now she’s helping my two month baby girl and my husband. My pain has gone away so much I couldn’t imagine going to another Dr that treat me and my family as well as she does. We love her 💕"
    LuisanaD
  • "Best chiropractor I have ever been too! Very professional and a welcoming place!"
    Jarret W.
  • "Paramount Chiropractic is amazing. Dr. Cassie and her team are awesome, and they really listen to you, take care of your needs, and make sure you really are feeling better when you leave."
    Paul D
  • "I have benefited from the chiropractic care I received from Dr. Raftopoulos."
    Art C - Loxahatchee, FL
  • "I have benefited from the chiropractic care I received from Dr. Raftopoulos."
    Art C - Loxahatchee, FL