Circadian Rhythms
Understanding Light, Health, and Circadian Rhythms
The human body uses light cues, such as those provided by the sun, to time certain internal functions. Properly timed rhythms regulate mood, sleep, energy, appetite, and digestion. These daily internal cycles, called circadian rhythms, sometimes fall out of sync, resulting in an unregulated body clock.
Modern Living Has Altered Our Circadian Rhythms
Unfortunately, modern living has dramatically altered nature’s cues. A modern day no longer starts at the crack of dawn and ends at 8:00 p.m. Workdays are getting longer and many people face shift work sched- ules. Additionally, most everyone’s social gatherings and personal activities extend well into the night.
These factors have diminished the body’s natural ability to regulate the body clock.
Circadian Rhythm Imbalance
When our circadian rhythm becomes imbalanced, the body produces the wrong hormones, chemicals, and neurotransmitters at the wrong time of the day. The results range from feelings of sadness to sleep- lessness to loss of appetite.
Effects of an Imbalance in Circadian Rhythm
Many people suffer from a loss of energy and mood that can last for a short period of time to more than a couple of weeks. For many, these feelings come on stronger in the winter and in darker climates.
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