Daytime naps help your brains: Let yourself rest

If you're a fan of daytime sleep, here's some good news: a recent study claims that napping can actually be good for your brain.

Contrary to the misconception that napping is a sign of laziness, the study indicates that people who enjoy taking naps might actually have smarter brains.

Let's find out more

Keep your brain healthy

The research conducted by experts from UCL and the University of the Republic tested lots of people aged between 40 and 69.

It discovered that those who regularly napped had larger total brain volume, which is usually associated with a lower risk of severe diseases like dementia.

Using a special technique called Mendelian randomization, the scientists explored the genetic factors related to daytime sleep and overall brain health.

They uncovered a causal connection between habitual sleeping and brain health, suggesting that short naps can potentially contribute to maintaining brain health later in life.

It's not a panacea

However, it's important to note that napping is not a cure-all for brain-related issues.

The study didn't show any huge difference in other measures of brain health and cognitive function.

Nonetheless, the researchers hope that their findings will challenge the stigma surrounding daytime sleeping and bring attention to its potential benefits.

So, if you enjoy a daytime snooze, embrace it, knowing that it could be doing some good for your brain.
 

• Related news:
• research
• sleep
• brain
• intelligence
• 8 July 2023

---