Adjusting to the transition between daylight saving time and standard time may take a few days for most Canadians, but sleep experts warn that this biannual change disrupts sleep patterns and affects the body’s internal clock negatively.
Dr. Michael Mak, a psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, explains that the internal body clock synchronizes with the external light-dark cycle, and any discrepancy between them can lead to significant health issues.
Instead of switching back and forth between daylight saving time (DST) and standard time (ST), experts in circadian rhythms advocate for permanently adopting Standard Time as it aligns better with the body’s natural rhythms and promotes better health.
Impact of Springing Forward vs. Falling Back
Studies indicate that transitioning to daylight saving time in the spring is more detrimental than gaining an hour in the fall, according to Rebecca Robillard, an associate professor at the University of Ottawa specializing in clinical sleep research. She highlights that losing an hour of sleep, coupled with existing sleep deprivation in the population, can lead to various health risks.
The shift to DST is linked to an increased likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, digestive issues, as well as complications during childbirth and pregnancy, according to research findings.
Liberal MP Marie-France Lalonde, in conjunction with sleep experts, announces plans to introduce a bill addressing the biannual time change.
Countries with significant variations in daylight hours throughout the year, especially those far from the equator, implement DST to maximize longer daylight periods in spring and summer. However, Canadians tend to experience slightly worse sleep quality during DST as they stay up later to enjoy warmer weather and longer evenings.
Rebecca Robillard notes that social obligations often hinder Canadians from adjusting their wake-up times accordingly during DST, impacting their sleep schedules.
Opting for Standard Time, as Recommended by Experts
Both British Columbia and Ontario have passed laws to permanently adopt DST, aiming to eliminate the challenges associated with the biannual time change. However, successful implementation depends on neighboring regions also embracing the change.
Despite concerns raised about aligning with financial markets like the New York Stock Exchange, sleep researchers in Canada advocate for adhering to Standard Time for its alignment with natural sun exposure.
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