Summary
Large-scale study using Oura Ring data validated that HRV coefficient of variation during sleep can be reliably estimated from just 5+ nights of data. Higher variability in nightly HRV was associated with worse health behaviors.
Methods
Analysis of continuous HRV data from Oura Ring users over multiple weeks
Key Findings
- 5+ nights of data needed for reliable HRV-CV estimation
- Higher HRV-CV associated with alcohol consumption
- Higher HRV-CV linked to lower physical activity levels
- Higher HRV-CV correlated with inconsistent sleep schedules
Limitations
Observational data, correlation not causation
What This Means for You
Track your HRV for at least a week before drawing conclusions. If your nightly HRV jumps around a lot, look at your alcohol intake, exercise consistency, and sleep schedule as potential culprits.
Source
Read the original paper in npj Digital Medicine ↗
Added to HRV Zone: 2025-01-07