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Monthly Archives: November 2015

Talking Turkey: The Truth About Tryptophan

Learn the truth about tryptophan in turkey for your Thanksgiving meal.

Learn the truth about tryptophan in turkey for your Thanksgiving meal.

 

There’s a lot to love about Thanksgiving. Whether you love spending time with your family, watching the Thanksgiving Day parade, cheering for your favorite football team on a special Thursday or indulging in the huge meal, the holiday gives everyone a reason to celebrate. But how often do you miss some of that because you take a nap in the middle of Thanksgiving? When this happens, the tryptophan laden turkey is usually the first suspect. CPAPCentral.com is here to examine the connection between tryptophan and sleep.

What is Tryptophan?

Simply put, tryptophan is an amino acid, which helps to create proteins in the body. It is not produced by the body, which means tryptophan must be consumed in your diet. Tryptophan produces chemicals that aid in a lot of body functions, including producing serotonin. Serotonin can help you relax, which can in turn help you fall asleep.

Where Does Tryptophan Come From?

Tryptophan is found in a variety of foods, including meat, cheese and fish. But, it is most commonly associated with poultry products, especially turkey. Because of this, there is a common belief that eating a lot of turkey at Thanksgiving is the reason you end up taking a nap in the afternoon. But, is this belief fact or fiction?

In truth, it’s not the turkey that makes you sleepy on Thanksgiving, but the nap inducer is found at the Thanksgiving table. Instead of the tryptophan found in protein, it’s more likely the carbs found in the Thanksgiving side dishes that help put you to sleep. Carbohydrates can also boost your serotonin levels, but are easier to digest than protein, which means foods loaded with carbs like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pies are more likely to cause that drowsiness.

CPAPCentral.com has a variety of CPAP supplies to help you sleep better at night if you have sleep apnea. We wish you and your family a happy Thanksgiving!

The Connection between Diabetes & Sleep Apnea

Studies have shown that there is a connection between sleep apnea and diabetes.

Studies have shown that there is a connection between sleep apnea and diabetes.

 

At first it may be tough to see how a disease that affects your blood glucose levels can be connected to a disorder like sleep apnea that affects your breathing while you sleep. But, once you think about it for a little longer, the connection starts to become clear. CPAPCentral.com wants you to know about the connection between diabetes and sleep apnea, and what you can do to manage symptoms for both disorders.

The Importance of Weight

Obesity is a leading risk factor for sleep apnea, as excessive weight gain puts more pressure on your body. This is especially true when excessive weight is gained in the trunk and neck region, resulting in compromised respiratory function. As the soft tissues and neck muscles relax during sleep, the airway closes and this leads to sleep apnea. Obesity is also among the top risks for developing type 2 diabetes, which results in increased blood glucose levels and reduces the body’s ability to produce insulin. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce your risk for developing either disorder.

How Sleep Apnea Can Lead to Diabetes

Sleep apnea is a disorder that, when left untreated, wreaks havoc on your sleep patterns. You may not be aware of it if you haven’t been diagnosed, but sleep apnea prevents you from getting into the deepest levels of sleep where you can recharge which leaves you feeling tired all day. This can lead to an increased heart rate and decreased energy levels. All of this can throw your body off and effect the production of hormones that help manage fat levels and muscle mass in the body, which can lead to the development of diabetes. Researchers have also found connections between sleep apnea and insulin resistance.  Additionally untreated sleep apnea often leads to unhealthy eating habits, frequent snacking to combat the daytime fatigue and exhaustion.

CPAPCentral.com encourages all of our customers to live healthy. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, CPAP therapy can help you sleep better and decrease your likelihood of developing diabetes. We have CPAP machines, masks and accessories for people with sleep apnea. We encourage you to consult your doctor to learn more about your risk for developing diabetes.