Ohio State Experts: Power Naps Outperform Energy Drinks for Student Cognitive Function

Columbus, OH, September 22, 2026 —

Experts at Ohio State University have evaluated the impact of common student strategies for combating fatigue, specifically comparing the efficacy of short power naps against the consumption of energy drinks. The findings suggest a distinct advantage for napping in supporting overall cognitive performance and memory.

According to the university’s experts, short naps, typically ranging from 10 to 20 minutes, are more beneficial for cognitive functions such as alertness, learning, and memory consolidation. These brief periods of sleep allow the brain to process information and restore its capacity for new learning, rather than simply pushing through exhaustion.

In contrast, energy drinks, which are widely used by students to stay awake and alert, were found to primarily mask fatigue. The experts indicated that while the caffeine and sugar content in these beverages can provide a temporary boost in perceived energy, they do not address the underlying physiological need for sleep. This can lead to a cycle of dependency and may not support long-term cognitive health or academic performance as effectively as adequate rest.

The comparison highlights a critical distinction between managing symptoms of fatigue and genuinely recovering from it. The experts’ insights suggest that students seeking to optimize their cognitive function and academic success may find short naps to be a more sustainable and effective strategy than relying on stimulant-based beverages. The specific duration and optimal timing for these power naps were not detailed in the provided information. Similarly, the exact number of experts consulted or the specific departments involved were not stated.

Story summarized from the original created by Joelle Hammett on www.thelantern.com, see more information here.

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