Siesta behavior and genetics interact to influence obesity risk

Objective

In this cross-sectional study, we aim to investigate the interactions between obesity, siesta behavior, and the genetic propensity for siesta in a Mediterranean population, in whom siesta is deeply rooted.

Methods

We applied a previously generated Siesta-Polygenic Score (PGS) in the ONTIME study (n = 1278). Siesta and other Mediterranean lifestyle behaviors were characterized using questionnaires. We further determined obesity grade. Secondarily, we measured weight loss during treatment as well as long-term weight-loss maintenance. Logistic regression analyses were performed to address our aim.

Results

A total of 42.4% of the population usually took siesta. A significant genetic influence on siesta propensity was found, with a higher genetic predisposition linked to taking siesta more frequently (odds ratio [OR] = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.03–1.32; p = 0.015). Participants with a higher genetic propensity for siesta showed poorer dietary habits (p < 0.05). Among individuals with a high genetic propensity for siesta, we found that those who usually take siesta have lower odds of having obesity (p = 0.038) compared with those who do not. Similarly, in exploratory analysis, among individuals with a high genetic propensity for siesta, we found that those who usually take siesta have higher odds of weight-loss success (p = 0.007) compared with those who do not.   

Conclusions

Considering the ongoing debate regarding whether siesta is beneficial or detrimental, our findings suggest that individual genetic predisposition to siesta might influence the association between siesta and health.