Buzz
Research shared at the European Society of Cardiology’s recent annual conference highlights that midday naps can significantly benefit heart health.
Conducted by cardiologist Manolis Kallistratos at a hospital in Athens, Greece, the study analyzed nearly 400 individuals with high blood pressure. It found that those who napped during the day had lower blood pressure and required fewer hypertension medications compared to non-nappers. The benefits were most pronounced in those who napped for an hour or longer, with average blood pressure readings dropping by 4% during waking hours and 6% at night.
This translated to an average reduction of 5 mmHg in daily blood pressure. Kallistratos emphasized in a press statement that even a modest 2 mmHg decrease in systolic blood pressure can lower the risk of cardiovascular events by up to 10%.
While this study doesn’t conclusively prove that napping directly reduces blood pressure, it suggests that individuals who can incorporate midday naps into their routines may lead more balanced and less stressful lives. Additionally, prior research has linked napping to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart attacks, reinforcing the idea that a siesta-friendly lifestyle supports heart health.
