How well we take care of our bodies through diet and exercise affects a lot of things, including whether or not we snore.

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Sleep apnea is to blame quite often in cases where snoring is a problem, and being overweight is often the main culprit behind sleep apnea. If everyone around you complains of your loud snoring, read on to learn why it’s time to get fit.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a respiratory condition in which a person stops breathing off and on during sleep. As a result of the breaks in sleep, a person with sleep apnea may wake up feeling groggy and tired more often than not and may be totally unaware that sleep apnea is the reason.

Your spouse may be the one to help identify that there is an issue, because one of the main signs of sleep apnea is heavy snoring and snorting between breaths while sleeping. Sleep apnea can be very dangerous if a person has frequent and long spells during which their breathing stops overnight.

Sufficient oxygen is needed to help the condition, as well as weight loss, which will really make a difference. If you suspect that you have sleep apnea, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible so that you can be more closely monitored through a sleep study and get the proper treatment.

Sleep Study

In a recent sleep study, a group of males with great snoring problems underwent a six-month weight loss program. Researchers found that among those who lost 6 pounds, the amount of snoring was reduced by about 50 percent. Those whose weight loss was 13 pounds or more ended up with little to no more snoring thereafter. Based on these findings, it is pretty obvious that weight loss can really help you to get your snoring under control.

Your Weight Loss Plan

In order to lose weight, you will have to change your amount of food consumption and begin to get more physically active, even if you take baby steps first. A good place to start is a 15-minute walking regimen that increases in length and speed as your stamina increases.

Taking a casual stroll around your neighborhood or place of employment when you are most likely to eat and most active (after lunch, for example) is best. Walking outdoors will give you fresh air and hopefully good scenery to make the walk more enjoyable. If walking isn’t your thing, find something else that you enjoy doing and stick to it.

As far as food is concerned, use portion control and stay away from junk food and processed foods so you don’t overeat. Make a deliberate effort to eat more fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grain.

Lots of water is important too. After you drop a few pounds, your snoring should decrease – but more importantly, you’ll feel and look so much better. Consult your doctor before beginning any exercise or dietary regimen.