BACKGROUND. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious condition associated with increased morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease (CVD). It has been found that OSA and obesity commonly coexist. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends diet-induced weight loss and exercise as lifestyle treatment options for OA. Epidemiological studies show that sleep apnea leads to increased risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including hypertension, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.
SUBJECTS AND METHODS. The present study aims to analyze the therapeutic efficacy of nutritional intervention in a sample of 53 male patients (mean age of 59.0 ± 9.0 years) with OSAS (obstructive sleep apnea syndrome) followed for 14 months. The present study aims to refine preventive and therapeutic dietary intervention to reduce cardio-metabolic risks in patients with OSA.
RESULTS. The data obtained shows a highly significant reduction in risk factors for cardio-metabolic diseases in the population of 53 Italian men (mean age 59.0 ± 9.0 years). Specifically, the average levels of the HOMA-IR value, insulin-resistance index, has been reduced by 50%, equally considerable are the reduction in the average levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, BMI, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, and fasting insulinemia.
CONCLUSIONS. The present study offers clear evidence of the therapeutic and preventive efficacy of diet in significantly reducing cardio-metabolic risk levels in OSAS patients.
