Could my Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) be Causing Weight Gain?

becomemybestme
Mar 19
1 min read

Yes it could. Untreated sleep apnea does make it more difficult to lose weight. This is due to the fact that it slows down your metabolism and in some cases, may mean that you won't be able to lose weight at all. Also the extra fatigue that OSA causes makes it hard to stick to a regular exercise routine. Research shows that people with untreated OSA have higher levels of leptin. Because leptin levels are high in patients with OSA independent of body fat content, it was assumed that OSA is associated with resistance to the weight-reducing effects of leptin, which may in turn result in increased appetite and weight gain. Also grelen (known as the hunger hormone) levels are higher in those with OSA. The appetite stimulating effects of ghrelin contribute to increased caloric intake and weight gain.

Know the symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea which include:

-Excessive daytime sleepiness.

-Loud snoring.

-Observed episodes of stopped breathing during sleep.

-Waking during the night and gasping or choking.

-Awakening in the morning with a dry mouth or sore throat.

-Morning headaches.

-Trouble focusing during the day.

-Mood changes, such as depression or being easily upset.

-High blood pressure.

-Decreased interest in sex.

If you feel you might have OSA, it's a good idea to see your primary care provider to discuss testing for OSA.