New research suggests that there are five distinct types of sleepers rather than just the familiar morning larks and night owls. This classification ties closely to personal health and lifestyle choices.
These so-called “hidden subgroups” among those who rise early and those who stay up late show unique patterns in behavior and health outcomes.
For example, one type of early riser tends to experience fewer health issues, while another faces higher rates of depression. Night owls exhibit even more varied patterns and results.
Le Zhou, a neuroscience graduate student from McGill University, notes that “in today’s digital and post-pandemic era, sleep patterns are more diverse than ever.” Understanding these variations could lead to tailored strategies for sleep, work schedules, and mental health initiatives.
Typically, early birds and night owls are the most recognized “chronotypes,” describing when individuals feel most alert or sleepy. However, researchers have long argued that there’s more to it than just these two categories.
Prior studies have explored various sleep patterns and their links to health and lifestyle outcomes, but the specific chronotypes highlighted in this new study are novel.
The research team analyzed data from 27,030 adults in the UK Biobank, revealing two subtypes for early risers and three for night owls. A similar classification appeared in a separate study group of over 10,000 teenagers from the United States.
Subtype 1 among night owls is linked to risky lifestyle habits, emotional regulation challenges, swifter reaction times, and improved cognitive performance compared to early risers.
Subtype 2 represents a less favorable night owl group associated with depression, smoking, and higher cardiovascular risks. People in this category are generally less active and tend to have reduced white matter integrity in their brains, often requiring antidepressants.
Subtype 3 aligns with those who exhibit more “morningness” traits, typically experiencing fewer health problems. They usually don’t smoke, drink less alcohol, engage in fewer risky activities, and though they may be more anxious, they manage their emotions better.
Subtype 4 reflects another type of early riser, mostly female, who often shows depressive symptoms and tends to receive more prescriptions for antidepressants.
Subtype 5 is the last night owl group and shows a male dominance. This group is characterized by higher consumption of alcohol, cigarettes, and cannabis, alongside increased risks of cardiovascular disease and prostate issues.
In conclusion, the research team states that our internal sleep patterns could connect to various aspects of daily life in ways not previously considered.
The findings were published in Nature Communications.
