Sleeping in on Weekends Could Protect Against Heart Disease: Study

What is the Study Saying?

A recent study suggests that sleeping in on weekends may reduce the risk of heart disease by as much as 20 percent. The study, conducted by the UK Biobank, found that people who received the most weekend catch-up sleep were less likely to develop heart disease.

How Does Weekend Sleep Affect Heart Health?

The study analyzed data from over 90,000 people and found that those who had the most “catch-up” sleep at weekends had significantly lower rates of heart disease than those with the least. The study’s author, Zechen Liu, explained that the results show that for people who suffer from sleep deprivation, those who have the most “catch-up” sleep at weekends have significantly lower rates of heart disease than those with the least.

Can You Really “Catch Up” on Lost Sleep?

Experts previously believed that it was impossible to truly “catch up” on lost sleep. However, more recent studies suggest that indulging in those extra hours of rest on the weekend may have health benefits. A separate 2018 study found that people who slept four to six hours each night during the week and then “caught up on weekends” lived longer than those who carried their sleep debt into the next week.

Other Studies Support the Benefits of Weekend Sleep

Another 2020 study suggested that “catch-up sleep” may be associated with reduced low-grade inflammation. In 2023, researchers found that sleeping in on the weekends may have a protective effect on adolescents, who tend to need more and get less sleep.

What Does the Research Say About Oversleeping and Undersleeping?

Research in this area is still developing, and some studies suggest that oversleeping and undersleeping have similar consequences. However, the benefits of weekend sleep may outweigh the risks for people who suffer from sleep deprivation.

What are the Recommendations for Improving Sleep?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends going to bed and waking up at the same time each day to improve sleep. Adults ages 18 to 60 should get seven or more hours of sleep nightly. School-aged children may need as many as 12 hours of sleep, while teenagers generally require eight to 10 hours.

Conclusion

Sleeping in on weekends may have a significant impact on heart health, with a 20 percent reduction in the risk of heart disease. While more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of weekend sleep, the current evidence suggests that indulging in those extra hours of rest on the weekend may have health benefits.

FAQs

Q: Can you really “catch up” on lost sleep?
A: Yes, recent studies suggest that indulging in those extra hours of rest on the weekend may have health benefits.

Q: What are the benefits of weekend sleep?
A: The benefits of weekend sleep include reduced risk of heart disease, improved sleep quality, and reduced low-grade inflammation.

Q: What are the recommendations for improving sleep?
A: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends going to bed and waking up at the same time each day to improve sleep. Adults ages 18 to 60 should get seven or more hours of sleep nightly. School-aged children may need as many as 12 hours of sleep, while teenagers generally require eight to 10 hours.

Q: What are the risks of oversleeping and undersleeping?
A: Research suggests that oversleeping and undersleeping have similar consequences. However, the benefits of weekend sleep may outweigh the risks for people who suffer from sleep deprivation.