Daylight saving time can be both a blessing
and a curse. Naturally, most people look forward to the end of daylight saving
time, when we turn the clocks back and enjoy an extra hour of rest or recreation. However, the annual
“spring forward” - when daylight saving time begins - can take a toll on
your mental and physical health.
Here are some examples of the impacts daylight
saving time can have on your health and behavior:
Issues with heart health
The lack of sleep brought on by the start of
daylight saving time has been shown to increase chances of heart health-related
issues. According to the American College of Cardiology, the
number of heart attacks increases by 25 percent every year around the beginning
of daylight saving time. However, this increase does not suggest that daylight
saving time directly causes people to have heart attacks. The majority of the
people who experienced heart attacks during daylight saving time were already
at risk for heart health issues. The added stress from the lack of sleep is
what puts them over the edge and triggers the heart attack.
Solution: To keep daylight saving time from triggering heart attacks, it is
important to make sure you are monitoring your heart health for the months
leading up to its start. Regular exercise and checkups are
recommended to keep your heart health in check.
Higher chance of car accidents
The loss of sleep brought on by daylight
saving time has also been shown to increase the number of car accidents. According to a study
conducted at Stanford
University, a significant increase in vehicular accidents was observed
following the time change.
Solution: This shift shows how daylight saving time can negatively impact
behavior and public safety. This reinforces the
importance of preparing for the time change and making sure you get enough rest the night of daylight saving
time.
Increased chance of workplace injuries
Daylight saving time has also been shown to
increase the number of workplace injuries that occur. Data
collected by the U.S. Department of Labor and Mine Safety and Health
Administration showed a 5.7 percent increase in workplace injuries due to loss
of sleep as a result of daylight saving time. The time change also causes a 68
percent increase in work days lost to injuries.
Solution:
Use this information to be more aware in the
workplace, and avoid dangerous situations that could cause injury to yourself
or others.
Lethargy and decreased productivity
While some of the negative impacts of daylight
saving time are more unpredictable, it’s no surprise that productivity takes a
plunge after the sudden time change. Those who do not have a chance to catch up
on their sleep are much more likely to become sluggish and less efficient
during the day.
Solution:
To combat feeling lethargic after daylight saving time
begins, prepare for the time change by going to bed increasingly earlier for a
few days ahead of the change. This can help you set a routine and acclimate
your body to the new schedule.
Dietary changes
Daylight saving time can also have an impact
on your appetite and diet. Two of the main hormones that
influence your appetite are heavily linked to sleep. These hormones are
ghrelin, which increases cravings, and leptin, which tells your body if it
requires more food. This explains why lack of
sleep and changes in schedule can take a toll on your appetite and eating habits.
Solution:
Avoid shocking your system with sugar and caffeine prior
to the time change. Plan your meals for the week of daylight saving time and
head to the grocery store. Stocking up on healthy meal ingredients and snacks
will help you maintain a consistent diet despite increased amounts of ghrelin
and leptin.
