Colorado Springs sleep specialist says ending of Daylight Saving Time takes toll on body

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - Daylight Saving Time comes to an end this weekend, but how will it affect your sleep schedule and overall health?

"We think many people would gain an hour of sleep, but not everyone experiences extra sleep in the days that follow this time change," said Dr. Viral Kothari, the Medical Director of Pediatric Sleep Specialists.

The end of Daylight Saving Time might affect you more than you thought.

"Even 30 minutes can have a huge affect on your sleep quality," Dr. Kothari said. "It can take up to a week for your natural body clock to sync up with the actual clock, and as a result, many people actually experience sleep loss."

Dr. Kothari said there are things you can do to have the time change affect you a little bit less.

First, open the curtains when you wake up on Sunday morning. Dr. Kothari said early bright light exposure "Helps your natural body clock adjust to a new time change."

Second, even though most people go to sleep later on the weekends, try sticking to your normal routine.

"This weekend try your best to go to sleep at the usual time that you go to sleep on the weekdays," Dr. Kothari said.

Lastly, if you are just too tired, take a nap!

"We do recommend taking a short nap at the right time of the day, so maybe a 30 minute nap sometime before 2 or 3 p.m."

Don't forget to set your clocks back on Saturday night. Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. MST.

Article Credit: https://www.fox21news.com/news/local/colorado-springs-sleep-specialists-says-ending-of-daylight-saving-time-takes-toll-on-body/1569729536

Author: Samantha Marks