Low energy diet 'improves sleep apnoea'

Older people with sleeping disorder obstructive sleep apnoea, who may be using assisted living, could be helped by a low energy diet, research has shown.

According to a study published on bmj.com, consuming a low energy diet and counselling to keep weight under control could help those with the condition.

Approximately 60 to 70 per cent of patients with sleep apnoea are either overweight or obese and previous studies have concluded that losing weight can improve the symptoms.

Sufferers experience abnormal pauses in breathing during sleep, rarely feel refreshed in the morning and may also have an increased risk of accidents and premature death as well as a decreased quality of life.

This follows comments from Dr Dan Robotham, research officer at the Mental Health Foundation, who said that getting a good night's sleep is vital to maintain good mental and physical health.

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