How Daylight Savings Time Can Affect Your Health

Each year, fall daylight savings time tends to sneak up on us. The days start to get colder and shorter and, all of a sudden, the sun is going down before the work day is even over. It may not seem like a big deal, but the effects of daylight savings time on our minds and bodies are impactful. Our circadian rhythm—the body’s internal clock—feels the change, affecting our sleep cycle. Our bodies take time to adjust to falling back, and fewer hours of sunlight can be a detriment to our health and wellbeing.

Understanding how daylight savings time affects health is the first step toward mitigating its impact on ourselves and our loved ones. Let’s explore a few ways daylight savings time affects us and some of the best ways to minimize its effects.

What Are the Effects of Daylight Savings Time on Mental Health?

There are a variety of pros and cons of daylight savings time, but there are studies that show the time change can have negative side effects on our wellbeing. Our circadian rhythm is tied to mental health, and the sudden switch that occurs with daylight savings time ending can lead to depression and more.¹

Shorter days and lack of sunlight can also lead to other negative effects. Less daylight often leads to more stress and lower motivation. These effects are especially noticeable near the time change, as our bodies and minds are still trying to adjust to the sudden switch.

How Does Our Gut Health Influence Mental Health?

The increased stress that accompanies the beginning and end of daylight savings time doesn’t just influence our minds. Stress and gut health are closely linked, and losing or gaining an hour can throw off our stomach just as easily as our circadian rhythm. If you and your family are used to eating meals on a set schedule, that time change can cause digestive issues—much like jet lag.²

How Does a Disrupted Circadian Rhythm Affect Our Bodies?

A person’s natural circadian rhythm gets locked in as we follow a sleep cycle. Unfortunately, the twice-a-year change that occurs in the spring and the fall can cause disruptions to our sleep. The added stress and digestive issues can further exacerbate any existing sleep issues. In turn, this can cause fatigue and a marked drop in overall energy for you and the people you care about.

Stay on Top of Your Vitamins & Nutrition

Summer is the season to keep up with healthy, delicious produce. But keeping up with your body’s nutritional needs offers year-round benefits. Stay tuned into Haleon Huddle for more recipes, products and tips for keeping your body functioning at its best.

Adjusting to Daylight Savings Time

Even though it can be tough, sticking to your normal schedule is one of the best ways to adjust to daylight savings time. Prepare for the daylight savings time change by slightly adjusting your schedule in the week or so leading up to it. That way, it won’t be such a shock to your system when everything is adjusted by an hour. Ensure you’re finding time to get sunshine—take a break from your desk and get outside when you can, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

There are several Haleon products that can help support your overall wellness during daylight savings time shifts. Try incorporating these into your routine:

Daylight savings time doesn’t need to throw off you and your family’s routines entirely! Stay aware, establish routines and exercise patience as everyone adjusts to the time shift. With the right attitude and support, you’ll hardly even notice the change.