Napping has long been recognized for its health benefits, but research has only recently turned its attention to the link between napping habits and mortality. A new study published in a reputable medical journal found that napping between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. is associated with a higher risk of death.
The study, conducted by researchers at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, analyzed data from over 86,000 adults. The results showed that longer or more irregular naps were linked to an increased risk of mortality, as well as other health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Experts believe that the link between napping habits and mortality may be due to underlying health conditions such as poor nighttime sleep, circadian rhythm disruption, or metabolic disorders. The study also found that long nappers tend to have a higher body mass index, larger waist, higher blood pressure, and increased prevalence of metabolic syndromes.
However, it’s essential to note that the study’s findings are not conclusive evidence of cause and effect, but rather associations between napping habits and mortality risk. The researchers emphasize that short power naps can be beneficial for energy and alertness, as long as they do not replace nighttime sleep.
The study’s results echo previous research on the topic. A 2022 study found that people who nap more are at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure and stroke. Another study published in 2023 showed that long nappers have a higher risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Source: https://nypost.com/2025/06/20/health/napping-between-these-hours-linked-to-a-higher-chance-of-death