'Night owls' may have worse heart health

February 8, 2026 - 22:53

Emerging evidence suggests that individuals who naturally stay up late and wake up late, often called "night owls," face a greater risk of developing heart disease compared to those who are early risers. This predisposition extends to a higher likelihood of experiencing heart attacks or strokes.

Researchers point to a misalignment between the body's internal clock and societal demands as a key culprit. Night owls forced into early schedules for work or school often experience chronic sleep deprivation and social jet lag. This persistent state of imbalance can lead to increased stress, unhealthy eating patterns at odd hours, and reduced opportunities for physical activity.

Furthermore, studies indicate that night owls may be more prone to engaging in behaviors detrimental to cardiovascular health, such as smoking, higher alcohol consumption, and poor dietary choices. The combination of physiological stress from circadian misalignment and these lifestyle factors creates a perfect storm for heart health issues.

Experts emphasize that while changing one's natural chronotype is difficult, night owls can mitigate risks by prioritizing consistent sleep schedules, maximizing exposure to morning light, and being especially vigilant about diet, exercise, and managing other heart disease risk factors. Understanding this link provides a crucial opportunity for targeted lifestyle interventions.