The biannual shift between daylight saving time and standard time can disrupt sleep patterns and impact the body’s internal clock, according to sleep experts. Dr. Michael Mak, a psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist, explains that any misalignment between our internal body clock and the external light-dark cycle can lead to significant health issues.
Researchers suggest that permanently setting clocks to Standard Time would better align with natural rhythms and promote better health. University of Ottawa associate professor Rebecca Robillard points out that the spring transition to daylight saving time, where we lose an hour of sleep, can be particularly harmful, increasing the risk of various health problems.
While some regions use daylight saving time to maximize daylight hours during spring and summer, experts recommend sticking to Standard Time for better sleep. Both British Columbia and Ontario have passed legislation to adopt daylight saving time permanently, but sleep researchers in Canada advocate for maintaining Standard Time instead.
Despite the ongoing debate, experts recommend adjusting your schedule gradually before time changes, staying active, and maintaining consistent sleep and eating patterns to ease the transition. Patricia Lakin-Thomas, a professor at York University, warns that adopting permanent daylight saving time could lead to challenges during fall and winter due to delayed sunrise times.
In conclusion, experts emphasize the importance of preparing for time changes and maintaining a regular routine to support healthy sleep habits. They caution against relying on “banking” sleep in advance to compensate for any sleep loss.