An Overlooked Cause of Childhood Obesity
Childhood obesity is growing at an alarming rate with 17% of today’s American youth being obese. As a condition that carries severe long-term health risks, it’s imperative that we explore the more subtle causes and effects of obesity in children. You might already be aware that obesity can cause sleep problems, but did you know that many of the issues surrounding obesity and sleep are circular? In other words, obesity can lead to sleep disorders, but sleep disorders can also lead to obesity. Here are some quick facts to explain the link between obesity and sleep disorders.
Obstructive sleep apnea is prevalent in children with obesity. One of the ways obesity is threatening children’s quality of life is by robbing them of a decent night’s sleep. Six out of 10 obese children suffer from obstructive sleep apnea[1] (OSA). OSA is a condition in which airflow to and from the lungs is prevented, leaving the individual unable to breathe freely during sleep. Children experiencing sleep apnea are continuously taken out of their restful sleep cycle, and as a result, suffer from sleep deficiency.
Sleep apnea leads to reduced daytime activity, leaving children at a higher risk for weight gain. Children affected by sleep apnea are likely to experience daytime sleepiness, making it more difficult for them to exert a lot of energy. This condition makes physical activity challenging, and often leaves children participating in a reduced amount of physical activity, or opting out all together[2].
Sleep apnea and other sleep-related disorders have negative effects on metabolism. Research has proven that lack of sleep can weaken an individual’s metabolism and impair the body’s ability to process sugars effectively. In some cases, this problem has escalated to the same level as diabetics[3].
While sleep apnea and other sleep disorders can be a byproduct of obesity, addressing these concerns is often an effective way to start treating the obesity itself.
Several treatments are available for pediatric obstructive sleep apnea. Adenotonsillectomy is often the first-line treatment, although children with obesity are more likely to experience persistent sleep apnea after surgery. Other treatment options include CPAP therapy, nasal corticosteroids (for selected patients), and oral appliances. Each approach has its own costs, benefits, and potential risks, which should be considered when choosing a treatment plan.
Disclaimer from Good Morning Snore Solution - The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. The Good Morning Snore Solution is marketed and FDA-cleared as an aid for reducing snoring in adults 18 years of age and older and is not marketed as a treatment for sleep apnea or other medical conditions. Consult your healthcare provider if you suspect you may have sleep apnea or another medical condition.
References: [1] Schwengel DA, Dalesio NM, Stierer TL. Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea. Anesthesiol Clin. Mar 2014;32(1):237-261. doi:10.1016/j.anclin.2013.10.012 [2]National Sleep Foundation. Obesity and Sleep. 2003; https://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-topics/obesity-and-sleep/page/0/1 [3] National Sleep Foundation. Obesity and Sleep. 2003; https://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-topics/obesity-and-sleep/page/0/1
