HEALTH

Sleeping in the afternoon makes the brain age more slowly

The Italian Society of Neurology has released data on a number of scientific studies that would prove that resting in the afternoon has benefits for human health. Previously, a study by Northwestern University had highlighted how high temperatures encourage people to sleep more during the day. 

According to current knowledge, sleeping in the afternoon would provide greater protection against events such as heart attacks, strokes, but also heart failure. Provided that the 'siesta' lasts no longer than half an hour, however. 

If afternoon rest lasts longer than half an hour, on the other hand, the opposite effect could be achieved, favouring the deterioration of cognitive performance.

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The benefits of afternoon naps
The Italian Society of Neurology has released data on a number of scientific studies that would prove that resting in the afternoon has benefits for human health. Previously, a study by Northwestern University had highlighted how high temperatures encourage people to sleep more during the day. According to current knowledge, sleeping in the afternoon would provide greater protection against events such as heart attacks, strokes, but also heart failure. Provided that the 'siesta' lasts no longer than half an hour, however. If afternoon rest lasts longer than half an hour, on the other hand, the opposite effect could be achieved, favouring the deterioration of cognitive performance.
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How long should it last
According to current data, sleeping in the afternoon is beneficial if the nap lasts between 5 and 15 minutes. These benefits then continue for up to 1/3 hour after sleeping.
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Genetic predisposition
According to a study conducted by the 'Center for Genomic Medicine' in Boston and the 'Broad Institute' in Cambridge, there is a genetic predisposition to afternoon naps that is simultaneously associated with greater brain development and a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease.
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Protection against neurodegenerative phenomena
According to the researchers, regular afternoon naps would provide some protection against neurodegenerative phenomena because they would compensate for the lack of sleep at night.
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Benefits against brain aging
According to the researchers, considering that a general decline in total brain volume is between 0.2 and 0.5 per cent per year, recent findings could indicate that those who habitually sleep in the afternoon could benefit from between 2.6 and 6.5 years less brain ageing.
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