- Weekend lie-ins have long been criticized for potentially disrupting the body's internal clock and harming health, but new research suggests otherwise.
- A study conducted by Korea University involving nearly 41,000 participants over seven years found that modest weekend catch-up sleep of about 1hr 27min is linked to a 9% decrease in high blood pressure risk.
- Physically inactive participants experienced an even greater benefit, with a 6.9% reduction in hypertension risk associated with weekend lie-ins.
- Experts now encourage individuals to not feel guilty about sleeping longer on weekends, suggesting it may be beneficial for recovery from sleep deprivation.
- Insufficient sleep and physical inactivity are prevalent risk factors for heart health, and weekend catch-up sleep could help compensate for weekday sleep debt.
- Dr. Nawon Lee, a study author, noted that not getting enough sleep increases stress on the body, which can elevate blood pressure.
Scientists at Korea University studied nearly 41,000 participants over seven years, presenting their findings at the European Society of Cardiology conference in Munich. The research indicates that weekend catch-up sleep of about 1 hour and 27 minutes can lead to a 9% reduction in high blood pressure risk.23
The study highlights that modest weekend sleep recovery may help compensate for weekday sleep debt, particularly for those who are physically inactive, who saw a 6.9% reduction in hypertension risk. Dr. Nawon Lee, a study author, stated, “Not getting enough sleep puts extra stress on the body. It keeps the heart and blood vessels working harder and can increase blood pressure.”47
Despite previous warnings about the risks of weekend lie-ins disrupting the body’s internal clock, this research suggests that catching up on sleep can be beneficial. Dr. Lee emphasized, “People should not feel lazy or guilty for sleeping a little longer on the weekend.” However, the study cautions against excessive sleep, noting that those who sleep more than four hours extra on weekends may face increased hypertension risk.1
Overall, the findings advocate for a balanced approach to sleep, encouraging individuals to prioritize rest without guilt, especially after a demanding week.
“The study, presented at the European Society of Cardiology's Munich conference, analyzed nearly 41,000 South Korean adults over seven years. Physically inactive participants saw a 6.9% reduction in hypertension risk, but sleeping more than four extra hours increased risk.”
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