Daylight saving time means that people lose one hour of sleep on the first night after the change. For some, it can take several days before the body adjusts to the new rhythm.
The time change has been debated for several years, and countries differ in whether they observe daylight saving time or not, reports HealthDay.
Possible consequences
Research suggests that the time change may have consequences in the days afterward.
According to a previous study published in Current Biology, the number of traffic accidents in the United States increases by around six percent in the week following the switch to daylight saving time.
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One possible explanation is that many people get less sleep.
At the same time, researchers are examining whether a fixed time system may be better for public health.
A study from Stanford University published in PNAS examined the difference between daylight saving time and standard time.
The study suggests that permanent standard time could have health benefits.
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Among other things, the researchers estimate that, in theory, it could prevent millions of cases of obesity and around 300,000 strokes each year in the United States.
However, they stress that the results alone cannot settle the debate.
How to prepare
Sleep experts therefore recommend preparing for the change.
According to HealthDay, sleep medicine specialist Dr. Sudha Tallavajhula from UT Health Houston recommends gradually adjusting your circadian rhythm.
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She advises going to bed and waking up about 15 minutes earlier in the days before the time change. Morning light can also help the body adapt to the new rhythm.
A stable sleep pattern is important. Experts therefore also recommend avoiding caffeine late in the day and ensuring a calm, dark bedroom.
Sources: HealthDay, and Current Biology.
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