Expert: Daylight savings time can have negative effects on mood

Newswise — The end of daylight saving time is approaching and although a change in one hour does not seem to be extreme, it impacts the circadian rhythm, which is the internal clock that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and can lead to disruption of brain and body functions. According to Lina Begdache, assistant professor of health and wellness studies at Binghamton University, State University of New York, you can prepare for the change by avoiding caffeine and alcohol and by eating healthy and exercising. 

What’s the correlation between Daylight Saving time change and our mood?

Begdache: Although a change in 1 hour does not seem to be extreme, it impacts the circadian rhythm, which is the internal clock that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Research on sleep quality during the transition time describes potential metabolic disturbances and changes in mood. Sleep quality may be affected especially due to sudden misalignment between the circadian rhythm and the amount of daylight we are exposed to. The circadian rhythm is crucial in regulating several brain and body functions. Many genes, known as clock genes, are expressed based on the circadian rhythm. Therefore, disturbance in this cycle means disruption in many brain and body functions. Mood alterations can be a consequence of this disruption. 

Are there people that are more susceptible to negative mood changes this time of year?

Yes, individuals with a predisposition to mood disorders and those with lighter sleep are affected. Interestingly, research has shown that women tend to have a shorter circadian rhythm of melatonin (the brain chemical that controls the sleep-wake cycle), which means that time transition may have a greater impact on their mood. This is something I found in my studies; women have a higher risk of mental health disorders in spring and fall.  

How can we prepare for or prevent this change?

People need to pay closer attention to their sleep quality when transitioning, avoid stimulants such as caffeine, or exercise closer to bedtime. Avoid blue light or heavy meals at least 2-3 hours before bedtime. Although alcohol is a depressant, it shortens the sleep-wake cycle, so it should be avoided.  

Can making positive changes in nutrition and lifestyle practices help? How can this change affect sleep patterns or quality of sleep?

Definitely, exercising during the day helps the brain produce more melatonin at night. A balanced diet of complex carbs and healthy proteins also supports more melatonin production. A word of caution: following a low-carb diet has a great impact on sleep quality. Individuals need to be conscious of how their diet is impacting their mood and sleep quality. Using a downtime regimen before bed helps to reduce stress, which also affects sleep quality. Maintaining a regular bedtime is crucial for mood as these clock genes mentioned above are very sensitive to the change in wake-sleep cycles.