The demands of a typical workweek, driven by school or job obligations, often leave us sleep-deprived. But what if we told you that getting extra sleep on weekends could actually lower your risk of developing heart disease? A recent study presented at the ESC Congress 2024 suggests just that.
Researchers from the State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Centre for Cardiovascular Disease in Beijing, examined the sleep habits of over 90,000 people in the UK. The study found that individuals who consistently slept less than seven hours per night during the week, were more likely to experience a reduced risk of developing heart disease when they caught up on their sleep on weekends.
The findings revealed a 19% lower chance of developing heart problems for those who made up for lost sleep, and a remarkable 20% reduction in risk for those consistently sleep-deprived. This association between compensatory sleep and lower heart disease risk was evident regardless of gender.
Dr. Nisha Parikh, director of the Women’s Heart Program for Northwell Health’s Cardiovascular Institute and the Katz Institute for Women’s Health, lauded the study as a “well-conducted analysis.” She emphasized the established link between sleep disorders and health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. Dr. Parikh further stated that catching up on sleep over the weekend could help mitigate some of the negative effects associated with chronic sleep deprivation during the week.
These findings provide compelling evidence that prioritizing sleep, even if it means making time for it on weekends, can significantly contribute to our overall cardiovascular health. As we navigate the pressures of modern life, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of adequate sleep for both our physical and mental well-being.
