Summary of A Medical Nightmare? A Neurologist Weighs In:
Daylight Saving Time has been linked to significant negative health consequences, including an increase in heart attacks and sleep deprivation among teenagers, according to researchers. The annual switch to Daylight Saving Time each spring affects health immediately after the clock change and also for the nearly eight months that Americans remain on daylight saving time, according to a neurologist who has studied the issue. Exposure to light later into the evening for almost eight months during daylight saving time delays the brain’s release of melatonin, the hormone that promotes drowsiness, which in turn interferes with sleep and causes people to sleep less overall. Adolescents are particularly susceptible to sleep problems from the extended evening light. Scientists believe that geography can also make a difference in how daylight saving time affects people, with people living on the western edge of a time zone experiencing higher rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and breast cancer, as well as lower per capita income and higher healthcare costs.
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Introduction: The Controversy Surrounding Daylight Saving Time
Controversy swirls around the biannual time change of Daylight Saving Time, as recent research suggests that this seemingly innocuous event has far-reaching health implications. Studies point to an increase in heart attacks and sleep deprivation among teenagers right after springing forward each March – consequences which could have serious impacts on our overall well being. Despite years of investigating its pros and cons, we remain concerned about the potential negative impact DST may be having on us all.
Why “Springing Forward” Can be Worse for Health
As a professor of neurology and pediatrics and director of Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s sleep division, I have examined the neurological evidence behind DST and the potential effects it can have on health. While DST is often viewed simply as an inconvenience, my research has found that “springing ahead” in March can have significant negative health impacts that can extend for several months.
The Case for Permanent Standard Time
As time shifts are a biannual event, it is natural to wonder which change is better for health. Although some individuals may view standard time as an outdated concept, research shows that it is better suited for promoting healthy living. Standard time most closely mimics natural light, with the sun overhead around noon. Meanwhile, DST shifts the timing of natural light one hour later, both in the morning and the evening, according to clock time.
The Importance of Morning Light
Morning light has been shown to help regulate the body’s natural rhythms, improve alertness, and boost mood. This is due to the effect light has on cortisol levels and the amygdala’s reaction, which are both parts of the brain involved in emotions. Adolescents are particularly susceptible to sleep problems during DST because many begin school early in the morning while it is still pitch dark outside. Therefore, it is essential to expose individuals to natural morning light, something that can be more difficult during DST.
Melatonin and Delayed Sleep
Melatonin is the hormone that tells our bodies when it is time to sleep. During puberty, melatonin is released later at night, which means that teenagers have a delay in the natural signal that helps them fall asleep. Extended evening light during DST can hinder the brain’s release of melatonin, which, in turn, can cause us to sleep less overall.
Geography Matters
Geography can also play a role in how time shifts affect individuals. For example, those living on the western edge of a time zone and exposed to less natural light between morning and evening are more likely to experience chronic sleep deprivation and suffer from metabolic syndrome, obesity, and diabetes.
A Brief History of Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time has a fascinating history, with roots dating back to both World War I and II. The idea was that having extra light in the afternoons would save energy by decreasing the need for electric lighting. However, research has shown that, due to increased heating and air conditioning needs, this theory is often inaccurate.
Many states have their own laws regarding whether they will observe DST or not, but legislation allowing states to opt-out of DST is becoming increasingly popular. In 2022, the U.S. Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act to make DST permanent, but the bill did not pass in the House. However, states can still decide whether to follow standard or DST.
It’s Time to Weigh the Pros and Cons
It is essential to evaluate DST based on its potential effects on health and well-being, not just as an inconvenience. Given the negative health consequences, it is clear that springing ahead each March should be examined more closely. Contrary to popular opinion, it seems that standard time provides more natural light exposure, which can promote healthy living.
As research continues to shed light on the negative impacts of DST, it is up to lawmakers to decide whether to eliminate the time shift entirely or choose a permanent standard or daylight-saving time. Only time will tell what legislatures will do next, but it is essential that we continue to evaluate the pros and cons of DST to ensure that it promotes healthy living.
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