Although not everything is gothic and theatrical, darkness inevitably arrives. As October comes to an end, the clock hands turn back, leading to sunset before 5pm. This abrupt change can leave us feeling bewildered, as if we’ve never experienced it before.
This shift affects us on a deeper level as it disrupts our internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm, which plays a crucial role in our health and behavior. The impact of this seasonal change goes beyond just feeling out of sorts; it can lead to slight increases in heart attack and stroke rates between October and March each year.
Dr. John O’Neill, an expert in circadian rhythms at the Medical Research Council Institute of Molecular Biology, warns that these clock changes can have serious health implications, such as a 25% increase in heart attack rates due to the disruption of circadian rhythms.
Disruptions in the body clock can affect various aspects of health, including cardiovascular health, mental well-being, immune function, and even the risk of car accidents. O’Neill emphasizes the importance of paying attention to our circadian health to mitigate these risks.
One way to adapt to clock changes is to treat them like seasonal jet lag, adjusting your exposure to light and eating patterns accordingly. By being mindful of these factors, you can help reset your circadian rhythm more rapidly and reduce the impact of disruptions.
O’Neill advocates for a consistent daily routine to support optimal circadian health, including waking up and eating at the same time each day, avoiding bright lights at night, and exercising during the day. By prioritizing circadian health, we can promote overall well-being and longevity.
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Source: www.sciencefocus.com
