New York, NY – As spring approaches and New York residents prepare to lose an hour of sleep when clocks move forward for daylight saving time this weekend, health experts say the seasonal time change is a reminder to pay closer attention to healthy sleep habits.
According to the National Association of Environmental Medicine, sleep is one of the body’s most important healing functions. During deep sleep, the body enters what experts describe as a “repair mode,” allowing cells to regenerate, hormones to rebalance and inflammation levels to decrease.
The daylight saving time change can temporarily shift the body’s internal clock as people adjust their sleep schedules. Health professionals say the transition is often a good opportunity for residents to evaluate their nightly routines and ensure they are getting consistent, restorative rest.
Researchers say one of the most important processes during deep sleep involves the brain’s glymphatic system, a network responsible for clearing waste and toxins that build up throughout the day. Without enough restorative sleep, experts say that process becomes less efficient, potentially affecting cognitive function and overall brain health.
Health professionals recommend adults get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. Experts emphasize the goal is not only reaching a certain number of hours, but waking feeling refreshed and alert.
Poor sleep quality has been linked to a range of health concerns. Studies show chronic sleep disruption may increase inflammation, weaken immune response, elevate blood pressure and contribute to insulin resistance. Researchers also report connections between inadequate sleep and memory problems, difficulty concentrating and increased stress hormone levels such as cortisol.
Common warning signs of declining sleep quality may include frequent nighttime waking, daytime fatigue, irritability, increased appetite and getting sick more often.
Medical professionals often refer to “sleep hygiene” when discussing ways to improve rest. Recommended strategies include maintaining a consistent bedtime and wake time — even on weekends — limiting screen exposure before bed, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake in the evening and creating a cool, dark and quiet sleep environment.
Experts say exposure to natural light in the morning may also help regulate the body’s internal clock as the daylight saving time shift occurs.
Public health officials emphasize that sleep should be treated as an essential biological function rather than an optional habit. As New York residents adjust their clocks this weekend, physicians encourage people to review their sleep routines and speak with a healthcare provider if sleep problems persist.
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