Can naps help you make up for missed sleep? Dr. Mallika Marshall answers your questions
BOSTON - Dr. Mallika Marshall is answering your latest health questions. If you have a question, email her or message her on Facebook or X (formerly known as Twitter).
RP writes, "As I get older, I find that a nice afternoon nap hits the spot. When it comes to logging a healthy amount of sleep, can I count naps?"
Naps are a great way to improve your level of alertness, elevate mood, enhance memory, and perhaps reduce stress. Ideally, you want to nap for no more than 20 to 30 minutes, so you wake up refreshed and not groggy.
And yes, naps can count toward your overall sleep total, but they won't counter the effects of chronic sleep deprivation.
It's still important to try to get a good night's rest, where you go through all the stages of sleep, including deep sleep, which helps the brain rest and recover.