Daylight saving time in 2024 is approaching, with clocks set to move forward on March 10. This shift can have a significant impact on our health, as it disrupts our circadian rhythm and exacerbates existing sleep deficiencies. The effects are particularly noticeable in the spring, with an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, car accidents, medical errors, and hospital admissions. To help adjust to the time change, experts recommend going to bed earlier in the days leading up to the switch and getting exposure to morning sunshine.
Daylight saving time is an annual practice in most states, starting on the second Sunday in March and ending on the first Sunday in November. It involves moving clocks forward by one hour to maximize the amount of sunlight during waking hours. Contrary to popular belief, daylight saving time was not designed to benefit farmers but rather introduced during World War I to conserve energy. While the practice has minimal effects on energy savings, it can have significant health consequences.
Daylight saving time typically lasts about eight months, from March to November. Some states and territories do not observe daylight saving time, including Hawaii, most of Arizona, Puerto Rico, and several others. Advocates for making daylight saving time permanent argue that it would eliminate the biannual clock changes and provide health benefits for individuals. Permanent standard time is preferred by some sleep health experts as it aligns better with human circadian biology and offers public health and safety benefits.
Efforts have been made in the past to make daylight saving time permanent, with President Nixon implementing a two-year experiment in 1974 that was later reversed due to public opinion. Recent bills have sought to make daylight saving time permanent, with the Senate passing the Sunshine Protection Act unanimously in 2022, although it did not pass the House of Representatives. Tips to reduce the negative health effects of daylight saving time include adjusting bedtime and wakeup schedules leading up to the time change, avoiding naps, seeking sunlight exposure, readjusting routines, watching diet and exercise, and reducing screen time before bed.
In conclusion, the upcoming daylight saving time in 2024 presents an opportunity for individuals to make adjustments to their routines in order to minimize the negative health effects associated with the time change. Understanding the impact of daylight saving time on our bodies and implementing strategies to mitigate its effects can help improve overall health and well-being during the transition period. By being proactive and taking steps to adjust to the new schedule, individuals can make the transition smoother and minimize the disruption to their internal body clock.
