Daylight saving time isn’t just inconvenient. It might be bad for your health

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As we prepare for daylight saving time this weekend, there are some things you can do now to start preparing.

Losing an hour of sleep this weekend isn’t just annoying. Experts say it could impact your health. 

Most of the U.S. will “spring forward” this Sunday, March 9, for daylight saving time. That extra hour of evening light throws off your body’s natural clock, making it harder to fall asleep. Some people even take weeks to adjust.

RELATED: Daylight saving time could knock your body clock out of whack: Here’s how to prepare for the time change

So why is that? Your brain has a “master clock” known as the circadian rhythm that is set by exposure to sunlight and darkness. The circadian rhythm is a roughly 24-hour cycle that determines when we become sleepy and when we’re more alert. 

But your body clock gets a little confused after the time change. In fact, studies have shown that it’s linked to more heart attacks, strokes and even deadly car crashes in the days after. 

To adjust, sleep specialists recommend going to bed 15 minutes earlier each night leading up to the change. Getting outside for morning sunlight can also help reset your internal clock. 

For the last several years, there have been bipartisan efforts to make daylights having time year-round; however, those efforts have stalled in Congress. Meanwhile, many health groups say we should stick with standard time, not daylight saving time.

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