New research indicates that individuals who consistently stay up late – particularly women – may face a 16% higher risk of heart attack or stroke compared to those with no strong bedtime preference. The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association and partially funded by the American Heart Association (AHA), highlights the dangers of chronic circadian misalignment – a mismatch between the body’s internal clock and daily sleep/wake cycles.
Why This Matters: The Biology of Sleep and Health
For decades, experts have warned about the dangers of chronic sleep deprivation. But this study points to a specific pattern: people who naturally prefer staying up late may be more prone to behaviors that increase heart disease risk. These behaviors include poor diet, smoking, and irregular sleep patterns. The underlying mechanism may involve altered brain responses to reward signals, leading to riskier choices.
Key Findings: Night Owls and the ‘Life’s Essential 8’
Researchers analyzed data from over 320,000 adults. Participants identifying as “definitely an ‘evening’ person” showed poorer scores on the AHA’s “Life’s Essential 8” questionnaire, which assesses eight key health factors: diet, exercise, smoking, blood sugar, blood pressure, weight, cholesterol, and sleep. Night owls were notably more likely to smoke (or live with smokers) and consistently get insufficient sleep.
The Gender Difference
While the increased risk applied to all participants, the study suggests that women may be particularly vulnerable to the cardiovascular effects of being a night owl. This finding requires further investigation, but could be linked to hormonal differences or behavioral patterns.
What Can Night Owls Do?
The research isn’t a condemnation of late sleepers. Experts emphasize that heart disease risk can be mitigated through lifestyle changes. According to Kristen Knutson, an associate professor at Northwestern University, evening types can reduce their risk by maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and prioritizing regular sleep.
“Evening types aren’t inherently less healthy,” says Knutson, “but they face challenges that make it particularly important for them to maintain a healthy lifestyle.”
Ultimately, the study reinforces the importance of sleep hygiene and healthy habits for everyone, but especially those who naturally prefer staying up late. Prioritizing cardiovascular health through mindful lifestyle choices remains the most effective way to reduce risk.
