(Image credit: Getty Images) A new study from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Soroka University Medical Center, published in the medical journal Sleep and Breathing, now links obstructive sleep apnea with reduced muscle quality and strength, plus an increased risk of fractures. It's estimated that around 936 million people globally are affected by sleep apnea, with the main symptoms and effects being impaired breathing at night, leading to strong daytime fatigue. If you're waking up exhausted and feeling weak when working out, your sleep disorder might be to blame. Key findings: At a glance The study, published in January 2026, shows an emerging link between obstructive sleep apnea and reduced muscle density. The more breathing disruptions during the night, the poorer the participant's muscle quality. Peak growth hormone secretion happens during deep N3 sleep. OSA 'fragments' deep sleep, so your muscles aren't getting a chance to be repaired.…