The shift to daylight saving time can disrupt sleep patterns for many people. When clocks move forward, the sudden loss of an hour can lead to temporary sleep deprivation and difficulty adjusting to new schedules. Experts say this shift can affect circadian rhythms, the internal clock that regulates sleep and wake cycles.
Sleep specialists recommend gradually adjusting your schedule in the days before the time change. Going to bed and waking up about 15 minutes earlier each day during the week leading up to the shift can help the body adapt. Exposure to natural morning sunlight also helps reset the body’s circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep earlier at night.
Maintaining consistent sleep habits remains key for long-term sleep health. Experts suggest limiting caffeine several hours before bedtime, avoiding heavy meals or strenuous exercise late in the evening, and keeping the bedroom dark and quiet. Adults typically need about seven to nine hours of sleep per night, while children and teens generally require more to support healthy development.
SOURCE:
News Medical, March 4, 2026