Afternoon Naps: Health Boon or Bane? Science Reveals Surprising Facts

• Afternoon naps, particularly between 2 PM and 4 PM (postprandial dip), are common, but their health impact is debated.
• Some research suggests long afternoon naps can negatively affect nighttime sleep quality and may even be linked to higher COVID-19 infection rates.
• Sleep experts recommend a 20-30 minute 'power nap' to boost alertness, mood, and performance, especially for those with insufficient night sleep.
• Longer naps (60-90 minutes or more) in the afternoon can disrupt nighttime sleep patterns.
• Short naps may benefit the immune system by reducing stress hormones, but this varies by individual, and excessive daytime sleep can signal underlying health issues, especially in the elderly.