That urge to nap after lunch? It’s stronger for women and there’s a reason why

Studies conducted by the National Sleep Foundation, US have pointed out two points of the day when our alertness is at its lowest: 2-7 AM and 2-5 PM. Because most of us are lost in dreamland during the first phase, it is the second that hits us hardest.

On top of this, after lunch, your body tends to experience a natural dip in energy levels due to factors like digestion and the release of insulin. This can lead to feelings of drowsiness, in both men and women.

Post-lunch drowsiness, often called the “postprandial dip,” results from a drop in blood sugar levels and the body’s natural circadian rhythm. Hormones like melatonin, responsible for promoting sleep, also play a role. These factors, in combination with a heavy meal, trigger the urge to nap during the early afternoon.

Experts indicate that women’s greater sleep needs are linked to their complex cognitive processes and multitasking roles. (Source: Freepik)

However, women’s hormonal fluctuations, especially during the menstrual cycle, can intensify this fatigue, explained Dr Bandita Sinha, Ob-Gyn at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Navi Mumbai, adding: “Progesterone, a hormone that rises during the menstrual cycle, has sedative effects, potentially making women more prone to afternoon naps.”

Experts indicate that women’s greater sleep needs are linked to their complex cognitive processes and multitasking roles. Added onto it are the demands of social and emotional intelligence placed on women, which could lead to increased mental fatigue, noted Dr Bhadu.

Though there is limited research exploring why women speficially feel this urge strongly, anecdotal evidence is found in abundance. Whether that is on social media or in our own lives. At my previous workplace, Girl Nap had been embraced with arms wide open by our all-women team. You could find all our eyes collectively closing as if a hive mind and our heads cosily smushed over our notepads, including our editor and the CEO.

I rest my case and my head for today’s Girl Nap.

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