Daylight saving time is almost here, and this Sunday, most of us will lose an hour of sleep as we “spring forward.” But this shift does more than just shorten our night—it can disrupt our body’s internal clock, leading to several health issues. Studies have shown that immediately after we move our clocks forward, there’s a slight increase in heart attacks and strokes, showing just how impactful losing that hour can be.
The effects of the time change go beyond feeling sleepy. Our circadian rhythm, which helps control our sleep patterns, also influences our heart rate, blood pressure, and even stress levels. After the clocks change, car accidents and heart problems also rise, which experts attribute to sleep deprivation.
To ease the transition, experts recommend adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before the change by going to bed earlier. Getting some sunlight in the morning after the change can also help reset your internal clock. While there’s talk in Congress about ending the need to change our clocks twice a year, health experts suggest that sticking to standard time year-round would be better for our health.
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