Submitted by Koala Center for Sleep Disorders
Many Americans are planning to jumpstart their weight loss through diet and exercise. The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) says that lack of sleep could be contributing to our struggle with shedding those unwanted pounds. Some people believe that less sleep means more calories burned, unfortunately, what they don’t realize is that their lack of sleep could actually be contributing to their excess weight.
According to Meir H. Kryger, MD, Chairman of NSF’s Board of Directors, “Research suggests that even a modest amount of sleep deprivation can increase appetite by altering the behavior of the hormones leptin and ghrelin, which are responsible for regulating metabolism. As a result of sleep loss, people may experience stronger cravings for carbohydrates and calorie-rich comfort foods such as cookies and chips, which can lead to weight gain.” The sleep loss can also contribute to an increased desire for high-calorie foods or junk food. The psychological manifestations of fatigue, sleep, and hunger are similar, and as adults, we sometimes confuse them. So, we tend to eat when we’re actually sleepy, because we think fatigue is a sign of hunger.
Others fight feelings of fatigue and sluggishness by relying on high-sugar, calorie-laden energy drinks and highly caffeinated beverages. The extra calories and caffeine contribute to a vicious cycle of weight gain and the inability to fall asleep when one is truly ready for sleep. In order to promote healthy lifestyles, the NSF is sending a wake up call to remind people that “sleep is as important as diet and exercise… only easier!”
Unfortunately, getting a good night’s sleep is not a choice for some individuals. They desperately desire quality sleep and are willing to sleep more hours if necessary, but sleep eludes them because they suffer from sleep-disordered breathing. They may not even be aware of it, because they are, well… trying to sleep. Sleep Disordered Breathing is the condition identified by labored respiration during sleep that is caused by obstruction of the nasal or oral airway. It ranges in severity, from simple snoring to Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome, to the potentially fatal Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
If a person is overweight or suffering from sleep disordered breathing, he/she may not be as motivated to exercise or to diet. When apnea leads to daytime sleepiness, it may be that much harder to begin or sustain an exercise program, which has been shown to help people begin or maintain weight loss. Not only does obesity contribute to sleep problems such as sleep apnea, but sleep problems can also contribute to obesity.
The health risks and implications associated with Sleep Disordered Breathing are extensive and varied. They include obesity, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, Alzheimer’s Disease, neurological and neuromuscular disorders such as Parkinson’s Disease, stroke, and many others. While this seems like a daunting list, there is hope for those who suffer.
Dentists and physicians are beginning to team up to identify and treat Sleep Disordered Breathing in a new field called Sleep Disorders Dentistry. Sleep Disorders Dentistry involves the use of screening tools (such as health history, questionnaires geared toward quality of sleep, neck circumference measurements, weight, and body mass index (BMI) calculations) as well as airway assessment and Oral Appliance Therapy.
If a patient is a candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy, a dental impression of the patient’s teeth and a neuromuscular bite are taken in order to create an oral appliance that is specifically fit for that patient’s unique oral anatomy. The appliance is fabricated in a FDA-certified dental laboratory and can be delivered to the patient in less than two weeks. The patient’s progress is monitored closely and adjustments are made to the appliance until symptoms are relieved. Most patients notice a marked improvement immediately, and then it is just a matter of fine tuning to reach maximum appliance efficiency.
Sleep Disordered Breathing is a widespread problem. Sleep Disorders Dentistry is a possible solution. If you or someone you know struggles with losing weight and suspects they have sleep disordered breathing, don’t wait another day. Help is available that can put you on the path for healthier sleep tonight and brighter, more energetic tomorrows.
For more information, contact the Koala Center for Sleep Disorders by calling 309-319-6568 or visit their website at bloomingtonsleep.com. Dr. Gray has dedicated his practice to the treatment of snoring, sleep apnea, and TMJ disorders with oral appliance therapy. The custom-made appliances are covered by most major medical plans and Medicare. The Koala Center for Sleep Disorder accepts appointments without referrals but will work with your physician throughout treatment.