Setting Back the Clock
The Damage This One Hour Does to Your Body
Here we go again!
Leaving out the politics of whether or not falling back and springing forward is “good for society”, this one little hour wreaks havoc on your health.
You aren’t imagining feeling lousy!
Even though it’s just an hour difference, it disrupts your circadian rhythm— your body’s internal clock — which affects sleep, hormones, and metabolism.
Sleep
Losing or gaining an hour can throw off your sleep cycle for days or even weeks.
Poor sleep quality increases fatigue, irritability, and poor concentration.
Heart health risks
Studies show a higher rate of heart attacks (about 20–25%) in the days after the spring time change.
This is likely due to sleep deprivation and stress on the cardiovascular system.
Mental health effects
Disrupted circadian rhythms can worsen anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
People already prone to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) may feel worse after the fall change because of shorter daylight hours.
Higher accident risk
Fatigue and slower reaction times lead to more car and workplace accidents, especially after the spring shift.
Metabolism and weight
Your body’s hunger hormones (ghrelin and leptin) get thrown off, which can lead to overeating or sugar cravings.
Insulin sensitivity and digestion also follow your internal clock, so timing shifts can cause sluggish metabolism or digestive discomfort.
Immune and hormone disruption
Melatonin, cortisol, and other regulatory hormones are tightly linked to light exposure. Disrupting these rhythms can weaken immune response and make you feel “off.”
Angie’s tips for adjusting to time changes:
Go to bed earlier!
Get morning sunlight to reset your internal clock naturally.
Keep caffeine and alcohol minimal during the adjustment week.
Prioritize consistent meal and sleep times.
Exercise gently in daylight hours to help balance hormones.
Contact me directly to get a customized meal guide for higher nutrients during this adjustment time.
Stay tuned for cooking classes to be announced soon!
**Schedule a one-hour deep dive. This is where you can bring all your personal questions!
Find the calendar link HERE
Remember we are all BIOINDIVIDUAL, what works for one does not work the same for another.
For more info on packages and classes visit Angie’s Real Food and discover your path to wellness.
Call or text me at (619) 807-1387 or send an email to hello@angiesrealfood.com to ask a question.
Use the link below to schedule a 20 minute chat to discuss your goals and learn how partnering with me will help you achieve them.
