New research is highlighting a strong connection between how people breathe during sleep and their risk of heart disease. The study focuses on obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during the night.
Researchers found that disrupted sleep patterns do more than affect energy levels. They can increase the risk of both sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease. When breathing is compromised during sleep, the body responds with inflammation, oxidative stress, and changes in how cells detect and react to oxygen.
The study points to the body’s circadian rhythm as a central factor. Patients with sleep apnea often show abnormal daily patterns in blood pressure, heart rate, melatonin production, and cortisol levels. The research also found that intermittent drops in oxygen during sleep can alter the expression of core clock genes in heart and lung tissue within just a few hours.
Chronotherapy, which involves aligning treatments with the body’s natural rhythms, is showing promise as a way to reduce both sleep apnea and cardiovascular risks.
The findings underscore the importance of a consistent sleep-wake cycle for heart health. Experts recommend sticking to regular sleep and wake times, even on weekends, to reinforce the body’s natural clock. Creating a cool, dark, and quiet sleep environment can promote deep, uninterrupted rest.
Some studies suggest that magnesium supplementation before bed may support muscle relaxation, including airway muscles, and can help improve sleep quality. Managing evening stress through breathwork, gentle stretching, or meditation may prevent circadian disruption. Sleeping on the side rather than the back can also help keep airways open during the night.
Individuals who experience snoring, gasping, or suspect breathing issues during sleep are advised to speak with a healthcare provider. The research indicates that paying attention to nighttime breathing and supporting healthy circadian rhythms can provide benefits for heart health.
