zest.science
🧠 A recent study (PMID: 37344293) suggests that habitual daytime napping is associated with 15.8 cm³ larger total brain volume (a marker of brain health and resilience against cognitive decline). This difference is equivalent to approximately 2.6–6.5 fewer years of “brain aging”.
🔬 Study:
– Population: 378,932 participants from the UK Biobank
– Genetic analysis of napping habits and brain imaging
📉 Findings:
– Larger brain volume in habitual nappers.
– Neuroprotective potential – Supports cognitive resilience against age-related decline.
– No association found between napping and hippocampal size or immediate cognitive performance.
Are you someone who takes naps during the day? On the weekends? How long do you typically nap for?