HEALTHY THURSDAYS: Power napping really IS good for you: A 30-minute snooze can repair the damage caused by a lack of sleep Naps help relieve stress and bolster the immune system, study finds Scientists hope findings will help shift workers and insomnia sufferers Sleep deprivation increases risk of obesity, diabetes and depression New research found 30-minute nap helps repair damage of too little sleep

By LIZZIE PARRY FOR MAILONLINE   

Indulging in a power nap can repair the damage caused by a lack of sleep, new research today claims.

Having a 30-minute snooze can help relieve stress and bolster the immune systems by restoring hormones and proteins to normal levels.

Scientists hope their findings will help shift workers and those suffering insomnia, by mitigating the damage caused by too few hours sleep.

Sleep deprivation not only puts people at increased risk of suffering accidents, but they are also more likely to develop chronic diseases including obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and depression. 'The findings support the development of practical strategies for addressing chronically sleep-deprived populations, such as night and shift workers.'

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The study examined the relationship between hormones and sleep in a group of 11 healthy men between 25 and 32.

During one session, the men were limited to two hours of sleep for one night.

For the other session, they were able to take two, 30-minute naps the day after their sleep was restricted to two hours. more