Health impacts and coping strategies for Daylight Saving Time shift | iHeart’s Talk Radio KOGO San Diego | 3/10/23

iHeart’s Talk Radio KOGO recently asked Fahmi Farah, M.D. to come on the air in San Diego, CA to discuss the changing of the clock due to daylight saving time. The discussion started with the fact that the sun will set later in the evening because of the upcoming time change, but Dr. Farah explained that in reality, the sun doesn’t do anything, we just look at our clock differently. However, Dr. Farah mentioned that losing an hour of sleep due to the time change can have a negative impact on our health, especially if we already have a pre-existing sleep disorder. He suggested that we can adjust more quickly to the time change by gradually introducing the changes to our sleeping habits a week or two before the time change occurs.

Dr. Farah also pointed out four tips for better sleep hygiene such as going to sleep in a timely manner, keeping the phone away from the bed, taking a moment to destress before sleeping, and minimizing screen time before bed. When asked about whether to maintain daylight saving time or standard time all year, it was a difficult question to answer as there are pros and cons to each. For the summer season, we enjoy having sunlight longer into the day. However, many people find the time change twice a year inconvenient and harmful to their health.

In summary, Dr. Fahmi Farah advised that we can take steps to adjust to the time change and maintain better sleep hygiene. Though the debate regarding standard time versus daylight saving time continues, it is important to prioritize our sleeping habits for the maintenance of our overall health.

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