I'm curious about possible health consequences of [polyphasic sleep patterns][1], which involves sleeping multiple times in a 24-hour period — usually more than two, in contrast to getting all sleep in one block (monophasic). I'm interested in cases of more than just an afternoon nap.

Are there any studies that suggest possible risks or benefits to health regarding polyphasic sleep?


  [1]: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polyphasic_sleep