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A brief afternoon nap has been linked to better mental agility by a new study – improved location awareness, verbal fluency, and working memory were noted in participants who had took a nap compared to those who didn’t.
The research looked at a total of 2,214 people aged 60 or over in China. They were all asked what their napping habits were, and then were given a series of tests to measure different types of cognitive abilities, from problem solving to concentration.
While the duration and frequency of naps varied among the volunteers surveyed, the analysis found “significantly higher” cognitive performance scores among people who reported regularly closing their eyes around the middle of the day.
“Several studies have shown that the afternoon nap promotes cognitive function in the elderly; on the other hand, some studies have shown opposite results, ”write the researchers in their published article.
“This study found higher cognitive performance in diapers in the elderly, supporting previous observational studies.”
That some studies support the idea that daytime naps are linked to better brain function while other studies do not is a bit of a headache for scientists, and for those of us who do. ask if we should work on training a nap or not.
The researchers in this case suggest that whether or not the nap was intentional, as well as the duration of the naps, might play a role – these factors were not measured here, although naps were defined as lasting less than two hours and more than five minutes.
Even with the limitations of the study – which isn’t enough to show cause and effect, just an association – researchers say it’s a useful look at how napping might act as a sort of mediator. between poor health and inflammatory responses in the body.
Previous studies have examined the links between sleep and the immune system in detail, and it has been suggested that napping may have an effect here, too.
It’s important to remember that health and wellness goes far beyond cognitive functions, so there is a lot to consider when it comes to determining whether a nap is really right for us.
“When disease or cell damage occurs, napping can help regulate the inflammatory response,” the researchers write.
This study also looked at the level of triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood, in the participants.
The results showed that regular diapers had higher levels of these lipids than non-diapers – possibly because those with a more sedentary lifestyle are more likely to take a nap. This is another area where future research could focus, suggests the team behind the study.
While napping generally becomes more common as people get older, scientists are not yet sure whether this type of daytime nap can help prevent dementia and other types of cognitive decline, or if there is one. really a symptom.
Right now, the consensus seems to be that, on the whole, napping is generally good for us, and there is no doubt that, in general, getting enough sleep and rest is essential to keep our bodies going. in good health.
And if you’re wondering how prevalent napping was in the study sample, 1,534 people reported taking at least occasional afternoon naps, while 680 did not – so if you are tempted to close your eyes during the day. , you are certainly not alone.
The research was published in General psychiatry.
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