A recent study has spotlighted potential health risks associated with burning midnight oil in the eternal debate of night owls versus early birds. The findings suggest that night owls may be facing a significant health concern—nearly double the likelihood of developing hardened arteries compared to their early-rising counterparts.
Understanding Hardened Arteries:
Hardened arteries, marked by the accumulation of fatty deposits in blood vessels, pose a heightened risk of heart attacks or strokes. This risk is particularly pronounced in older individuals grappling with high blood pressure and cholesterol.
The Research Focus:
Conducted with a cohort of 771 participants aged 50 to 64, the research sought to delve into the question of whether night owls, individuals who prefer later wake-up and bedtime routines, exhibit a higher prevalence of hardened arteries.
Alarming Findings:
The study’s revelations are striking. Those identifying as definite night owls displayed a staggering 90% higher likelihood of having hardened arteries compared to their early bird counterparts. Of the participants, approximately 17% fell into the category of definite night owls, excluding those who considered themselves night owls ‘to some degree.’
The Circadian Rhythm Misalignment:
The study suggests that the misalignment between being a night owl and the natural circadian rhythm, which dictates activity during daylight hours, might contribute to health issues. This misalignment has previously been linked to high blood pressure and inflammation—two factors known to contribute to arterial damage and hardening.
Consideration of Lifestyle Factors:
While the study underscores the potential cardiovascular risks associated with being a night owl, researchers acknowledge that night owls often adopt less healthy lifestyles, including poor dietary habits. These lifestyle factors could independently elevate their risk of developing hardened arteries.
Mio Kobayashi Frisk, the study’s lead researcher from the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, advises night owls to be aware of the potential link with hardened arteries. She suggests considering healthier lifestyle choices such as maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and engaging in regular exercise to mitigate potential risks.
The Future Risk:
In assessing participants’ risk of developing cardiovascular disease over the next decade, accounting for factors like age, sex, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and smoking status, the study found that definite night owls with a high risk of cardiovascular disease were 15 times more likely to have hardened arteries compared to those with low risk.
As the night owl lifestyle comes under scrutiny for its potential impact on cardiovascular health, it becomes imperative for nocturnal individuals to prioritize well-rounded health practices. Balancing late nights with mindful lifestyle choices such as a nutritious diet, sufficient sleep, and regular exercise could be the key to breaking the link between burning the midnight oil and the risk of hardened arteries.
