Expert says one diet could 'cut risk' of sleep apnoea and loud snoring

A health expert has revealed that eating a certain diet can reduce the risk of sleep apnoea, according to new research. The expert says that people who eat foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains and nuts will have a lower chances of developing the disordered breathing condition.

On the other hand, an unhealthy diet full of refined carbohydrates, sugary drinks and high-sugar and high-salt foods can increase the risk, a study found. Sleep apnoea is a condition where your breathing stops and starts while you're sleeping.

It's important to treat it as it can be linked to other health problems including type 2 diabetes, strokes and heart attacks. Signs of sleep apnoea include long pauses between breaths, gasping, snorting or choking sounds, waking up often and loud snoring.

READ MORE: The Voice UK announces two coaches will replace axed Olly Murs in show 'first'

Sometimes, losing weight, quitting smoking and cutting down on alcohol can help treat sleep apnoea. Some people might need to use a machine called a CPAP to keep their airways open while they sleep.

New research published in ERJ Open Research has identified a link between the condition and what people eat. It included data from 14,210 people taking part in the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, who gave 24-hour information on what they ate.

People also answered a questionnaire designed to gauge whether they were likely to be suffering from sleep apnoea. Half of those in the study were male, 33% did not take enough exercise and 21% were smokers.

Analysis showed that just over half of people in the study had an intermediate to severe risk of sleep apnoea, while 25% were classified as high risk.

Food groups were categorised as healthy plant