Daytime Napping: A Risky Habit or Harmless Ritual? New Study Explores the Link to Mortality

A recent study published in the journal Sleep has sparked debate over the health implications of daytime napping, particularly in middle-aged and older adults. The research suggests a correlation between certain napping patterns and increased mortality risk, prompting questions about the long-held cultural acceptance of afternoon siestas and midday rests.

The Study’s Findings: Nap Duration, Timing, and Irregularity Matter

The study, which followed over 86,000 participants in the UK Biobank, analyzed self-reported napping habits alongside data from activity trackers. Researchers identified several key factors linked to a higher risk of mortality:

• Longer Naps: Naps exceeding 60 minutes were associated with increased mortality risk.

• Inconsistent Nap Lengths: Frequent variations in nap duration, switching between short and long naps, also showed a correlation with higher mortality risk.

• Midday Napping: Napping around noon or early afternoon appeared to have a more detrimental impact on mortality risk compared to naps at other times of day.

These findings suggest that it’s not simply the act of napping itself, but the patterns of napping that may be significant. Consistent, shorter naps may be less problematic than irregular or excessively long naps.

Expert Commentary: Underlying Health Issues and Sleep Disorders

Dr. Ashley Curtis, an expert in sleep and aging, offers crucial context to the study’s findings. She emphasizes that longer daytime naps may indicate underlying sleep disorders such as insomnia or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). These conditions disrupt nighttime sleep, leading to daytime sleepiness and a greater reliance on naps.

Dr. Curtis also points to the potential role of chronic low-grade inflammation, often associated with longer naps, as a contributing factor to various health problems linked to increased mortality, including obesity, diabetes, stroke, hypertension, and osteoporosis. The fragmented sleep associated with sleep disorders can also disrupt circadian rhythms, further impacting health.

The study highlights a complex interplay of factors, with napping potentially serving as a symptom rather than the sole cause of increased mortality risk.

The Role of Lifestyle Factors and Sex Differences:

Dr. Curtis notes the importance of considering lifestyle factors. Research indicates that regular physical activity, meeting recommended guidelines for moderate-to-vigorous exercise, can mitigate the link between napping and mortality risk. This suggests that a healthy lifestyle can offset some of the negative consequences associated with certain napping patterns.

Furthermore, sex differences may play a role. Some studies suggest a stronger link between long naps and mortality in older men compared to older women, potentially due to higher rates of sleep apnea and frequent nighttime urination among men.

Addressing the Concerns: Improving Sleep Hygiene and Lifestyle Choices

The study does not advocate for the complete abandonment of napping. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of:

• Improving Nighttime Sleep: Addressing underlying sleep disorders like insomnia and OSA is crucial.

• Maintaining Consistent Nap Habits: If napping is necessary, aiming for shorter, consistent naps (under 30 minutes) may be beneficial.

• Adopting a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and stress management are essential for overall health and well-being.

The study serves as a reminder that healthy sleep habits are an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. While a short power nap may be beneficial for some, prolonged or irregular napping habits may warrant attention and a discussion with a healthcare professional.

Key Takeaways:

• A new study links specific daytime napping patterns (long naps, inconsistent nap lengths, midday naps) to increased mortality risk in middle-aged and older adults.
• Longer naps may be a symptom of underlying sleep disorders like insomnia or sleep apnea.
• Chronic low-grade inflammation, potentially linked to longer naps, may contribute to various health problems.
• Regular physical activity can mitigate the link between napping and mortality risk.
• Sex differences may influence the relationship between napping and mortality.
• Improving nighttime sleep hygiene and adopting a healthy lifestyle are crucial for overall health and longevity.