Can a long winter’s nap nourish your brain?

I know, I know…

The chilly temps make your bed feel that much cozier.

And if you toss and turn at night, you might be all-the-more tempted to return to under the sheets during the day.

After all, who doesn’t love a good nap?

Well, research suggests that “long winter’s nap” might actually be good for you…

And your brain.

Protect your brain volume

For the study, researchers analyzed data from nearly 379,000 study participants.

After examining 97 sections of genetic code that are linked to regular napping, researchers separated those with a genetic predisposition to nap against those without. (Yes, that means some of us are actually genetically inclined to nap regularly.)

Researchers then used MRI scans and quick cognitive function tests to assess brain and hippocampal volume, reaction time, and visual memory.

And while there was no significant difference in hippocampal volume, reaction time, and visual memory…

Brain volume differed by about 15.8 cubic centimeters between the two groups. That’s equivalent to protecting against 2.6-6.5 years of aging… just from napping regularly!

Tread lightly

Now, before you start oversleeping, let me be clear: We don’t yet understand why this occurred. Or why napping didn’t affect other areas of the brain—like hippocampal volume, reaction time, or visual memory.

But there must be a reason older adults tend to nap more. In fact, the oldest and youngest humans—seniors and babies—nap regularly. And this study may help us understand why…

Because napping gives us more brain volume, which is vitally important for the developing and aging brain.

Of course, we don’t have a definitive “sweet spot” for how long to take that daily snooze. And a daytime nap should NEVER replace quality shuteye at night. (As always, aim for seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep each night.)

So, I suggest treading lightly.

When needed, I recommend taking an afternoon nap between 30 minutes to one hour, tops.

(I wonder if too much napping is the reason for no association between hippocampal volume and cognitive outcomes. After all, the hippocampus is essential for learning and memory, so it would be nice to know.)

Because while this study leaves us with some unanswered questions, one thing is clear…

Sleep is important for brain health.

To learn some sensible tips for how to enjoy restful sleep each night, check out my Perfect Sleep Protocol.

Source:

“Regular Napping Linked to Greater Brain Volume.” Medscape, 06/21/2023. (medscape.com/viewarticle/993489)