American researchers have recently suggested that long naps of more than 30 minutes could increase the risk of obesity and hypertension.
- Throughout the world, different populations take naps in the afternoon, in order to be able to recharge their batteries. This is particularly the case of Spain or even China.
- A study recently alerted to the health risks of long naps.
- Short naps could have various benefits, particularly on productivity at work.
In some countries like Spain, it is customary to take a siesta during the afternoon. Researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (USA), however, have observed that long naps of more than 30 minutes could promote higher body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure. Their work has been published in the journal obesity.
Can long naps increase the risk of obesity and hypertension?
To reach these conclusions, the scientists examined data from 3,275 adults living in the region of Murcia (Spain). The participants’ metabolic characteristics were measured at the University of Murcia. A survey was also carried out to collect data on the volunteers’ naps and lifestyles. The subjects were then divided into three categories: those who did not take a nap, those who took a nap of less than 30 minutes and those who took a nap of more than 30 minutes.
According to the results, people taking long naps had higher BMI, waist circumference, fasting blood sugar, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure than the group who did not take a nap. In the study, the researchers also found that long naps were associated with later sleep and dinner times, higher energy intake at lunch, and smoking.
The health benefits of short naps
In the eyes of scientists, this research highlights a link between long naps and the risk of obesity and high blood pressure. However, further studies will be needed to confirm these results.
“This study shows the importance of considering nap duration and raises the question of whether short naps may offer unique benefits. Many institutions are realizing the benefits of short naps, primarily for productivity at work, but also increasingly for overall health. If future studies confirm the benefits of short naps, I believe this could be the driving force behind the discovery of optimal nap times.”noted Frank Scheer, study co-author, neuroscientist and professor in the Medical Chronobiology Program of the Division of Sleep Disorders and Circadian Rhythm at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.