Surprising study reveals: Taking long naps might be causing your weight gain

Many people grapple with the issue of unwanted weight gain despite adhering to what appears to be a healthy lifestyle, featuring balanced meals and regular physical activity. There are numerous potential reasons for this situation, including diseases like hypothyroidism, poorly structured diets high in processed foods, or even certain medications.

Recently, scientists have pinpointed an unlikely culprit for weight gain. It is... a nap. However, it's not about quick, revitalizing naps – doctors even recommend those as they help reduce stress and increase concentration. Conversely, overly long naps might be detrimental to health.

The impact of naps on obesity and other related conditions was studied by researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a university hospital associated with Harvard Medical School. The results of the study were published in the journal "Obesity".

The experts analyzed data from 3,275 adults in Murcia, Spain. They were divided into three groups – one group didn't nap, the second group napped less than 30 minutes a day, and the third group napped more than 30 minutes.

After the study, it emerged that those who napped longer than half an hour had about a 2 percent higher BMI. An increased waist circumference was also noted in them, suggesting a higher risk of abdominal obesity.

Additionally, long-nap takers had higher fasting glucose levels, cholesterol, and blood pressure. These results might be indicative of dangerous health conditions like type 2 diabetes or heart disease.

The observations show that prolonged daytime sleeping disrupts the circadian rhythm, which may ultimately lead to obesity.

Those who slept excessively during the day commonly experienced disturbed night sleep patterns,, often falling asleep late, which was tied to irregular meals and late-night eating. Such behavior negatively impacts the body’s health.