If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from sleep apnea, you might want to know about the relationship between bananas and sleep apnea. While bananas are a healthy source of dietary potassium, new research suggests that they may make sleep apnea worse. The study, which was published in the journal Sleep, found that people with sleep apnea who ate bananas had more trouble breathing during the night.
Too Much Mucus
Bananas are thought to worsen sleep apnea because they contain a compound called magnesium oxide. This compound relaxes the muscles in the throat, which can make it difficult to breathe. The researchers believe that magnesium oxide may also interfere with the brain’s ability to regulate breathing during sleep. So if you’re struggling with sleep apnea, it might be best to avoid bananas before bedtime.
There is another way that bananas can negatively impact sleep apnea. Bananas contain a substance called chitin, which increases mucus production in your mouth and throat. This can make it more difficult to breathe through your nose, potentially leading to louder snoring and more interrupted sleep. If you find that bananas make your sleep apnea worse, it’s best to avoid them in the evening or at night. Instead, enjoy them as part of a healthy breakfast or snack earlier in the day.
Symptoms
Sleep apnea is a condition that can cause people to stop breathing during sleep. There are three types of sleep apnea: central, obstructive, and mixed. Central sleep apnea is caused by problems with the nervous system, while obstructive sleep apnea is caused by blockages in the airway. Mixed sleep apnea is a combination of both central and obstructive sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea can cause serious health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. It can also lead to daytime fatigue and increased risk of accidents. Treatment for sleep apnea includes lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and sleeping on your side, and medical devices, such as CPAP machines. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
