Daylight Saving Time (DST) is a practice of setting the clock forward by one hour in the spring and back by an hour in the fall.

While it’s meant to maximize the amount of sunlight during the day, this time shift can wreak havoc on your body’s internal clock, leading to a variety of physical and mental health issues. One of the most commonly reported symptoms of DST is fatigue, and here are 10 reasons why you might feel more tired than usual after the time change.

1. Disrupted Sleep-Wake Cycles

Our bodies are wired to follow a natural sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm.

When we spring ahead or fall back, our bodies are suddenly out of sync with this cycle, causing us to feel either sluggish or alert when we’re supposed to be experiencing the opposite. This leads to disrupted sleep patterns that can take a few days or even a couple of weeks to adjust to, resulting in decreased energy levels and productivity during the day.

2. Reduced Sunlight Exposure

While DST does provide more daylight hours in the evening, it can also lead to less sunlight exposure during the morning hours.

Sunlight is essential for our bodies to regulate the production of melatonin, the hormone that helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle. When we don’t get enough sunlight in the morning, it can lead to increased daytime fatigue and a lack of energy.

3. Increased Risk of Depression

The sudden shift in our sleep patterns and exposure to sunlight can also increase the risk of depression.

Studies have shown that changes in circadian rhythms and exposure to daylight can have a significant impact on mood and mental health, leading to feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression. This can further contribute to feelings of fatigue and lethargy during the day.

4. Disruptive Eating Habits

DST can also disrupt our eating habits, leading to an increase or decrease in appetite.

The shift in our sleep-wake cycle can affect our hunger hormones and metabolism, leading to intense cravings for sugary or fatty foods or a decrease in appetite altogether. Poor food choices and a lack of proper nutrition can further contribute to feelings of fatigue and lethargy during the day.

5. Increased Stress Levels

The transition to DST can be a stressful time for many people, leading to increased feelings of anxiety and tension.

Whether it’s the sudden shift in sleep patterns, the disruption of daily routines, or the pressure to adapt to the time change quickly, this stress can take a significant toll on our physical and mental health, leading to increased fatigue, decreased immunity, and a host of other health issues.

6. Disrupted Work Schedules

For many people, DST also means a shift in their work schedules, leading to less flexibility and more rigid routines.

This change can be difficult for those with demanding jobs or those who struggle to adjust to a new schedule quickly, leading to increased feelings of stress and fatigue throughout the day.

7. Increased Exposure to Artificial Light

The shift to DST can also increase our exposure to artificial light, whether it’s from our phones, tablets, or laptops.

This added exposure to blue light can disrupt our natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to feelings of restlessness and fatigue during the day.

8. Reduced Physical Activity

DST can also lead to reduced physical activity levels, as the sudden change in sleep patterns can make it harder to motivate ourselves to exercise.

This decrease in physical activity can further contribute to feelings of fatigue and lethargy throughout the day.

9. Increased Caffeine Consumption

Many people turn to caffeine to cope with fatigue and lack of energy during the day.

However, increased caffeine consumption can lead to further disruptions in our sleep patterns and exacerbate feelings of restlessness and anxiety, worsening the fatigue we’re trying to combat.

10. Hormonal Imbalances

The stress and disruption caused by DST can also lead to hormonal imbalances, affecting the production of important hormones like cortisol, melatonin, and thyroid hormones.

These imbalances can further contribute to feelings of fatigue, irritability, and poor sleep quality, leading to a host of physical and mental health issues over time.

The Bottom Line

The transition to DST can be a challenging time for our bodies and minds, leading to a variety of physical and mental health issues, including fatigue.

However, by being aware of these potential issues and taking steps to prioritize our sleep, nutrition, and overall wellbeing, we can minimize these symptoms and better adapt to the time change.