Late Bedtimes Linked to Increased Heart Disease Risk

Night Owls Face‍ Increased Heart Health Risks, Study Finds

Adults who are⁢ moast active ⁤in the evening, particularly women, exhibit poorer cardiovascular health compared to those with a preference for mornings, according to research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association on January 30, 2026.

Study Details and Findings

Researchers analyzed⁢ data from over 300,000 adults with an average ⁢age ⁢of ⁤57 years, enrolled in the UK Biobank.The study focused on chronotypes – a person’s natural inclination toward sleep and wake times – and their correlation with cardiovascular health, measured using the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8.

• approximately 8% of participants identified as “definitely evening people,” typically going to bed around ⁢2 a.m. and reaching peak activity later in the ⁣day.
• Around 24%‍ identified as “definitely morning people,” tending to wake and be active earlier.

Lifestyle Factors Contribute to Risk

The analysis suggests that lifestyle habits common among night owls – including lower-quality diets, insufficient sleep, and higher rates of smoking – contribute to their lower cardiovascular health⁤ scores.‍ Researchers found that these habits help explain the observed differences.

“Improving daily habits such as sleep, diet, and smoking cessation could help night owls reduce their risk of heart attack and stroke,”

The study highlights a potential opportunity for intervention, emphasizing that modifying daily routines can positively impact heart health.