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.

If you’re new to Angie’s Insights or missed one of the previous editions, use the link below to catch up on easily implemented tips that can make a big difference in your health journey.