When you set your clock forward, it means more than losing an hour of sleep. When you spring forward or fall back, your body knows the difference. By the time it adjusts to the change in the fall, it is time to change again in the spring. When you adjust your clock by one hour, your body's clock really doesn't like it, and Daylight Saving Time could be hazardous to your health.

Health reports show that springing forward and falling back really do have side effects. Knowing what they are in advance can help you prepare for them and perhaps avoid having ill effects.

Therefore, it would be wise for people to know that there is more than just moving the hands on their timepieces.

Changes to your health

Sure, you change your clocks twice a year, but that is not the only thing that changes. Daylight Saving Time causes an obvious shift in a person's sleep and wake cycles. It will take several days after the time changes for a person to ease back into his regular sleep and wake up time.

During the adjustment time, a person can be moody and on edge. There is little productivity at work, and there might be disagreements with those close to the person for no apparent reasons. The bottom line is that when a person's sleep pattern is disturbed, the body has to go through a period to get back on the right track.

What to watch out for

Other than being cranky right after the time changes, don't be surprised if you experience issues such as fatigue, depression, and excruciating headaches. Be careful while driving because while you are aware of the side effects, other drivers might not be in the know and believe they can follow their usual routine.

You might be surprised how a one-hour change can make such a big difference. The change can trigger unwanted effects because a person's body rhythms are disturbed.

Adjustment Tips

One thing to remember is that you are not alone.

Everybody is going through the same changes even though they might be affected differently. You can do certain things to trick your body into thinking it is on the same schedule as before. Here are some things you can do:

  • Set your alarm so you can wake up a little earlier days before the time changes.
  • Eat a healthy breakfast because food will tell your body that it is time to start the day.
  • Go for an early morning walk because the sunlight will help your body adjust.

Does Daylight Saving Time affect you? If so, let your family and co-workers know so they won't think you are irritable for no reason. More than likely, they will understand because they probably will be feeling the same way.
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