The body’s circadian rhythm regulates sleep and energy levels, among other functions, and disruptions can negatively affect health over time, writes News Wise.
New research shows that influences during pregnancy may already play a role.
The study, published in the Journal of Biological Rhythms and conducted by researchers from Washington University in St. Louis, indicates that fetuses are not as unaffected as previously believed.
Impact on the fetus
The researchers used mice in their experiments. This made it possible to measure activity in the fetuses’ biological clocks using a luminescent protein.
Also read: Study of 14 million finds life satisfaction reaches lowest point at 49
In this way, they were able to track development while the fetuses were still in the womb.
The results showed that the fetuses began developing a day–night rhythm in the later stages of pregnancy.
At the same time, it became clear that signals from the mother play an important role. Hormones from the mother pass through the placenta and influence the fetus’s rhythm.
Implications for the future
The researchers also found that medication during pregnancy can alter this process. This may have implications for how treatments are planned in the future.
Also read: Types of bread that can support healthy blood pressure
In addition, they observed a link between a lack of circadian rhythm development and complications at birth. The rhythm may therefore be important for healthy development.
The body’s internal clock does not begin after birth but starts earlier, where it is regulated by the mother’s rhythm.
Sources: News Wise and Journal of Biological Rhythms.
Also read: Air pollution poses health risks – here’s how to protect yourself
Also read: Sweeteners in your diet may affect your child
This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.