As we age, our brains naturally shrink, leading to memory lapses and cognitive decline. However, a recent study suggests that regular napping during the day could potentially slow down this process and keep our brains mentally sharp.
The research, conducted on over 35,000 individuals in the UK, found that habitual nappers had a larger brain volume compared to those who did not nap. This means that their brains may experience less shrinkage over time, making them, on average, 2.6 to 6.5 years younger.
Interestingly, the study did not only rely on participants’ self-reported napping habits. Instead, researchers examined individuals’ genetic predisposition to taking regular naps, which provided a more accurate picture of how napping itself affects the brain.
Dr Victoria Garfield, senior author of the study from University College London, hopes that this research will help reduce any stigma associated with daytime napping. She states, “Our findings suggest that, for some people, short daytime naps may be a part of the puzzle that could help preserve the health of the brain as we get older.”
While the study did not find a direct correlation between napping and improved memory or mental agility, the larger brain volume observed in regular nappers could be due to the fact that naps allow individuals to catch up on vital sleep, which tends to be of poorer quality as we age. Quality sleep is known to be essential in protecting the brain from the effects of ageing.
It is estimated that more than a quarter of people aged 65 and above take naps during the day. Previous research has shown that brief naps, ranging from five to 15 minutes, can have lasting brain benefits for up to three hours.
However, the study did not determine the exact duration or frequency of naps required to reap these benefits. Lead author Valentina Paz advises that a short nap of five to 15 minutes is beneficial for cognitive performance, especially during the post-lunch period when alertness and performance tend to decline.
While further research is needed to explore the optimal nap duration and frequency, it is evident that incorporating regular naps into our daily routine may help keep our minds sharp as we age. So, don’t feel guilty about indulging in a quick snooze during the day – it could be just what your brain needs.
Do you take a nap each day? Do you feel your brain shrinking ( I think I do – must be time for a nap!)?
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