It’s almost Valentine’s Day! That special day when almost all men wait till the last minute to get flowers and assorted candies for their sweethearts. Most of us get so caught up in the Valentine’s Day festivities that we forget that there is another reason why February is a special month, it’s American Heart Month! This month is devoted to the number one killer of men and women in the United States. American Heart Month was created in 1964 to bring awareness to the various cardiovascular diseases and how to prevent them. Let’s talk about something that often gets overlooked when talking about heart health: sleep.

Yes, diet and exercise play a vital role in heart health, but did you know sleep can be just as important to your overall health as well? Studies now show that poor sleep promotes chronic inflammation which can lead to heart disease. One of the most common problems Americans face in regards to sleep is sleep apnea, a condition in which a person stops breathing 5 to 30 times an hour while sleeping. In fact, one in five adults suffers from at least a mild form of sleep apnea.

What Causes Sleep Apnea?

Excess weight (associated with obesity), GERD and a large neck can lead to the development of sleep apnea. Excess weight on the upper airway causes the muscles that hold the airway open to lose their tone, resulting in periodic closing of the airway. When our airway closes, our brain and the rest of our body are deprived of oxygen.

What are the symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

Pauses in breathing while sleeping, gasping for breath, and fatigue.

What are the risks associated with Sleep Apnea?

Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to severe drowsiness, high blood pressure, arrhythmia, stroke, and an increased risk of developing diabetes, depression and heart failure.

What can you do?

If you suspect you might have sleep apnea, first check with your partner to see if they have noticed that you stop breathing or gasp for air while you are sleeping. If they confirm your suspicions or if you still have concerns, talk to your physician about having a sleep study.

If you have sleep apnea, a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is often recommended to treat the issue and allow you to sleep better.

Remember, it’s important to maintain a regular exercise regimen and include a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fat in your diet to help manage your weight and help you sleep better! For more information on getting a good night’s sleep, check out Jan’s new book, Eat Well to Be Well, where she shares an entire chapter (co-written with sleep expert, Dr. James Maas) on how to get your very best night’s sleep!

After a great night’s sleep this Valentine’s Day, surprise your sweetheart with this treat for breakfast in bed: Chocolate Crepes with Strawberries and Vanilla Cream Filling.