Daylight saving time could be especially hard this weekend because of COVID-19 sleep loss

Daylight Saving Time Could be Especially Hard this Weekend due to COVID-19 Sleep Loss

As the clock springs forward one hour this Sunday morning, March 14, for most people in the U.S., many Americans may be dreading the return to daylight saving time (DST) because of the sleep loss and potential health risks associated with it. Sleep deprivation has been a significant problem during the COVID-19 pandemic, and this yearly time change could exacerbate existing fatigue and anxiety.

The Problem with Sleep Deprivation

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In the past year, sleep has been severely impacted by various factors, including anxiety, inconsistent schedules, and increased screen time. These stressors have led to a lack of restful sleep, which can have severe consequences for our overall health. Research suggests that even a single hour of sleep loss can be detrimental to our bodies and minds.

The Impact on Sleep Health

Problems related to sleep shortage go beyond mere tiredness. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), adults who are short sleepers – those getting less than seven hours per day – are more likely to report 10 chronic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, asthma, and depression. Children, who need even more sleep than adults, face similar issues. The Sleep Foundation recommends that 6- to 12-year-olds get nine to 12 hours of sleep daily, while teens should aim for eight to 10 hours. However, many parents report that their children are getting at least an hour less than that.

Why the Body Needs Sleep

Sleep is essential for our biological systems, as it allows our bodies to restore and rejuvenate themselves. When we don’t get enough sleep, serious consequences can result. Blood pressure may increase, and the risk of coronary heart disease could rise. Our endocrine system may release more cortisol, a stress hormone, causing increased arousal and reduced growth hormone and muscle maintenance. We may also become more susceptible to increased appetite and weight gain.

The Link Between Sleep Deprivation and Inflammation

Research suggests that sleep deprivation is linked to increased inflammation and a decreased number of antibodies to fight infections. It can also cause decreased pain tolerance, reaction times, and memory. Occupational studies show that sleep loss can lead to poor work performance, including increased days missed and car accidents.

A Solution to the Problem: Year-Round Standard Time

Many organizations, including the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, recommend abandoning DST and moving to a year-round standard time. This change could eliminate the need for twice-a-year time changes, reducing sleep disruption and related health risks. By aligning our clocks with our natural circadian rhythms, we can improve our sleep quality and overall well-being.

The Split on DST

States like Florida, which rely heavily on tourism, often advocate for permanent daylight saving time. Environmentalists, who value reduced energy consumption from morning heating and evening air conditioning, tend to support permanent standard time. Religious groups, whose prayer times are linked to sundown and sunrise, may also prefer permanent standard time. Many educators, concerned about the safety risks of transporting children to school during dark mornings, also back permanent standard time.

Conclusion

This Sunday’s time change could be particularly challenging for many Americans, especially those who have been struggling with sleep deprivation during the pandemic. It’s essential to prioritize our sleep health by creating a consistent sleep schedule and minimizing noise and distractions in our homes. By making these simple adjustments, we can improve our overall well-being and reduce the negative impacts of DST.

FAQs

Q: What are some potential health risks associated with daylight saving time (DST)?
A: Sleep deprivation, which can lead to chronic health conditions, and increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, asthma, and depression.

Q: Can sleep deprivation cause serious physical and mental health consequences?
A: Yes, research suggests that even a single hour of sleep loss can have severe impacts on our bodies and minds.

Q: Is permanent standard time a viable alternative to DST?
A: Many organizations, including the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, recommend abandoning DST and moving to a year-round standard time to reduce sleep disruption and related health risks.

Q: What can I do to improve my sleep health during DST?
A: Establish a consistent sleep schedule, minimize noise and distractions, and prioritize a healthy diet and exercise routine to help regulate your sleep patterns.