You’ve probably heard by now that lack of sleep can cause an increase in appetite and, ultimately, weight gain, but now new research suggests that sleep apnea also dramatically increases the risk of depression.
Researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) discovered that men with diagnosed sleep apnea are more than twice as likely as other men to exhibit signs of clinical depression, like feeling hopeless and uninterested in everyday activities. And it’s even worse for women: Those diagnosed with sleep apnea were FIVE times more likely to develop depression symptoms.
Unfortunately, the study also suggests that sleep apnea is under-diagnosed, reporting that 80% of people with classic symptoms such as snorting or gasping for breath on most nights had never received an official diagnosis. This group in the study were also at an increased risk of depression, three times more likely in fact.
What causes the sleep disorder that affects so many people in this country? It can be caused by several factors including oversized tonsils, the structure of the airway, or even excess fat surrounding the windpipe. In fact, sleep apnea is closely associated with obesity. So you can imagine what a frustrating cycle that must be: You’re having trouble losing weight because you’re not getting enough sleep, but you’re not getting enough sleep because you’re overweight! Of course it’s not that black and white, but it’s easy to see how upsetting, and well, depressing that can be.
If you think you suffer from sleep apnea, make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible, and stop the vicious cycle! For energy-boosting foods and tips, click here.
