According to sleep experts, the transition between daylight saving time and standard time can disrupt sleep patterns and negatively impact the body’s internal clock, leading to health issues.
Dr. Michael Mak, a psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, explained that any misalignment between the internal body clock and the external light-dark cycle can have significant health consequences.
Experts recommend adopting Standard Time permanently instead of switching between daylight saving time (DST) and standard time, as it better aligns with natural rhythms and promotes better health.
Springing forward to daylight saving time can be more detrimental compared to falling back
Research suggests that the shift to DST in the spring, where an hour of sleep is lost, can have adverse effects, especially considering the existing sleep deprivation in the population.
Studies have linked the springtime DST change to an increased risk of various health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, and digestive problems, as well as complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
Liberal MP Marie-France Lalonde, along with sleep experts, announced plans to introduce a bill to end the biannual time change.
In regions with significant seasonal daylight variations, like Canada, DST is adopted to make the most of longer daylight hours in spring and summer. However, this can result in poorer sleep during DST due to social pressures to stay up later.
Experts recommend maintaining Standard Time consistently, as it aligns better with natural sleep patterns and overall health.
