Category: Sleep apnea

A 2014 study published in the journal *Sleep* found that obese individuals with sleep apnea had significantly larger tongues with higher percentages of fat compared to obese individuals without the condition. This compelling research suggests that, yes, tongues do get bigger when you gain weight, and it can have profound effects on your health.

Research has confirmed that obesity is a significant risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and a new understanding reveals the role of tongue fat in this association. A Penn Medicine study found that obese patients with OSA have substantially larger tongues and a higher percentage of tongue fat compared to obese individuals without the condition. This critical finding shows that your tongue can get bigger as you gain weight, and it has significant health implications.