Napping is a widely accepted practice in regions such as Murcia, Spain, but long siestas of over 30 minutes have been linked to increased risk of obesity, metabolic syndrome and high blood pressure. According to researchers, if you’re pining for a midday snooze, make sure it’s a quick power nap. The duration, sleep posture, and other factors may have an impact on the nap’s health outcomes. To expand on this finding, the impact was investigated on metabolic health in the culturally-entrenched siesta-haven of Spain, examining the role of siesta duration. In a previous study of a large population in the UK, a like was identified between siestas and a higher risk of obesity.
More than 3,200 adults were studied with the investigators delving into the connection between daytime sleep and metabolic syndrome. The findings revealed that individuals who napped for over 30 minutes exhibited a higher likelihood of developing a cluster of conditions, including increased body mass index, elevated blood pressure, and other markers of heart disease and diabetes. However, individuals who took shorter “power naps” were less likely to display these metabolic changes and were also found to have lowered systolic blood pressure.
The researchers found that the long siesta group displayed larger waistlines and higher levels of fasting blood sugar and blood pressure than the no-siesta group. Interestingly, long siestas were also correlated with later bedtimes and late-night snacking. The study also noted a connection between longer naps, lunchtime eating and cigarette smoking. While an association between napping and obesity has been identified, further study is needed to determine a causal relationship.
This study emphasizes the significance of siesta duration and prompts the query of whether short naps afford exclusive gains. Numerous establishments recognize the work productivity of these mini-slumbers and are now embracing them as a means of promoting overall health.
These results offer compelling evidence regarding the impact of napping duration on lifestyle factors associated with cardiometabolic diseases. However, to fully validate the benefits of shorter siestas, further research is crucial.
To view the original scientific study click below:
Lifestyle mediators of associations among siestas, obesity, and metabolic health
