Healthy plant-based diet cuts risk of sleep breathing disorder

EATING meals of mostly vegetables can reduce the danger of sleep apnoea, research suggests.

- Jane Kirby

Meals rich in veg, fruits, whole grains and nuts lead to less risk of the debilitating disordered breathing condition, a study found.

In contrast, people eating an unhealthy diet of refined carbohydrates, sugary drinks and high-sugar and high-salt foods had a higher risk.

Sleep apnoea occurs when breathing stops and starts during sleep.

It needs to be treated owing to a link with other problems such as Type 2 diabetes, stroke and heart attacks.

Symptoms include long gaps between breaths, gasping, snorting or choking noises, waking a lot and loud snoring.

Inflammation

Sleep apnoea can sometimes be treated by losing weight, giving up smoking and cutting down on alcohol, though some people need to use a device to keep airways open.