new Research Identifies Five Distinct Sleep “Chronotypes“ linked to Health Outcomes
london, UK – October 11, 2025, 08:15 GMT - A groundbreaking study published today in Sleep Medicine Reviews has identified five major sleep patterns, or “chronotypes,” and revealed significant correlations between these patterns and various health indicators. Researchers at the University of surrey,analyzing data from over 1,400 participants,have moved beyond the conventional “morning lark” versus “night owl” dichotomy,offering a more nuanced understanding of how our natural sleep inclinations impact well-being. the findings could revolutionize personalized health recommendations, from optimal exercise timing to dietary adjustments, and perhaps mitigate risks associated with chronic diseases.
The study categorizes sleepers into five chronotypes: “Early Birds” who wake and sleep early; “Night Owls” with late bedtimes and wake-up times; “Intermediate” individuals falling between the two extremes; ”Daytime Sleepers” who prefer to sleep during the day; and a newly identified group, “nappers,” characterized by frequent, shorter sleep periods throughout the day. Researchers found that each chronotype exhibited distinct physiological and behavioral traits, including variations in hormone levels, metabolic rates, and susceptibility to conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mental health disorders. Understanding your chronotype, experts say, is the first step toward aligning your lifestyle with your body’s natural rhythms for improved health.
The research, led by Dr. Jo Loake, involved participants completing detailed sleep diaries and undergoing physiological monitoring. “We’ve shown that sleep isn’t just about quantity,but when you sleep,” explained Dr. Loake. ”These chronotypes are deeply ingrained and influenced by both genetics and environmental factors. Ignoring your natural sleep inclination can lead to chronic sleep deprivation and a cascade of negative health consequences.”
Specifically, the study revealed that “Night Owls” were more likely to experience higher levels of inflammation and poorer cardiovascular health, while “Early Birds” demonstrated greater psychological well-being. “Daytime Sleepers” showed a higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome, and the “Nappers” group, though not necessarily unhealthy, exhibited unique hormonal profiles. The “Intermediate” group represented the largest proportion of participants and generally displayed more flexible health markers.
researchers emphasize that attempting to force oneself into a chronotype that doesn’t align with their natural predisposition can be detrimental. Instead, they advocate for tailoring daily routines - including meal times, exercise schedules, and work hours – to accommodate individual sleep patterns. Further research is planned to investigate the long-term health implications of each chronotype and to develop targeted interventions for individuals struggling with sleep-related health issues.The team hopes their work will encourage a shift towards a more personalized approach to health and wellness, recognizing that one size does not fit all when it comes to sleep.
