Lawson, Melanie

Abstract Introduction Consumption of diet rich in high saturated fats has been associated with a higher degree of daytime sleepiness. A whole-food, plant-based (WFPB) dietary pattern, which is low in saturated fat, has been shown to be beneficial in weight loss and other health conditions. Patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) frequently experience excessive daytime sleepiness despite treatment. This study aims to assess the effect of a short term (21 days) WFPB diet on daytime sleepiness in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Methods Patients were recruited from the Mayo Clinic Jacksonville sleep clinic who have a diagnosis of OSA who are on PAP therapy but have daytime sleepiness with Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) score of 5 or above. Participants were asked to follow a strict WFPB diet for 21 days using the Fork Over Knives handbook as a guide. They were also asked to complete ESS before switching to and after completing a WFPB diet for 21 days. Results A total of 10 participants completed the 21-day WFPB diet. Eight out of ten participants had reported a reduction in daytime sleepiness. Overall, we found a mean decrease in ESS score of 3.8 in all participants, with 3 patients had a significant decrease in ESS score of ≥ 7. All participants completed the study with ≥ 90% adherence to a WFPB diet. In addition, participants also reported a mean weight loss of 4.2 kg. Two participants noted headaches during this 21-day period. Conclusion Significant improvement with daytime sleepiness was found in patients who switched to a WFPB diet for 21 days. No significant correlation between improvement in ESS and weight loss was found. Support (if any)