Sleep apnea is a condition that prevents you from breathing normally during sleep. Patients are known to stop breathing for 10-15 seconds during every hour of deep sleep. Regularizing your sleep pattern and losing weight can help in controlling these symptoms considerably though. Also, food plays an important role in managing this condition. In other words, having the wrong foods can have an adverse effect. So, let’s take a look at the foods to avoid for sleep apnea.

Refined Carbs
They are certainly on the list of foods to avoid for sleep apnea. Avoid sugar-based desserts and dishes made with flour (refined). Refined sugar promotes the development of mucus. An increased amount of mucus can produce phlegm, which can lead to difficulty in breathing. The connection between refined carbohydrates and weight gain is a well-known one too. Weight is directly related to the symptoms of sleep apnea. As your weight increases, your symptoms can get worse.

Excess Meat and Dairy
Red meat, high-fat foods, and dairy products are often tough on your digestive system. What this means is that as you prepare to sleep, your body is focused on digesting the food. This can result in a disturbed sleep pattern. Additionally, if you are in the high-risk category, as far as weight is concerned, high-fat foods can severely limit your attempts to lose weight.

Soy Products
It’s rare to hear people warning you about a healthy food source like soy. But soybeans and products made from them are not considered good for those with sleep apnea. Soy products tend to promote mucus generation. The excess mucus prevents you from breathing easily and effortlessly. So, watch out for soy products as you look at foods to avoid for sleep apnea.

Caffeine and Alcohol
Both of these rank high on the list of foods to avoid for sleep apnea. Alcohol may help you to sleep faster, but it does not give you the restful sleep that you need. Further, excessive alcohol is known to cause dehydration, which affects the upper airways of your lungs. This will force your continuous positive airway pressure machine to work harder to keep the airflow to your lungs steady.

Lower Your Spice Intake
The most important thing to do to prevent the symptoms of sleep apnea is to get a good night’s rest. Spicy foods can result in heartburn and uneasiness, especially if you have them for dinner. While spicy food can be tasty and enjoyable, it can prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep. Spicy foods have certain health benefits too as they help boost digestion and immunity. However, those suffering from sleep apnea should to avoid them, especially in the evenings.

So, keep the above list of foods to avoid for sleep apnea handy and consult a doctor for more advice.