Did You Remember to Change the Clock? Here's What That Could Mean for Your Health

Last night, Israel officially switched to standard time (between Saturday and Sunday), meaning clocks were set back by one hour. This occurred at 2:00 AM, when the clocks were turned back to 1:00 AM, giving everyone an extra hour of sleep.

Despite the clear advantage of gaining an extra hour of rest, the transition to standard time raises questions and controversies related to health, behavior, and long-term effects. Researchers argue that sudden changes to sleep schedules can negatively affect overall health by disrupting the body’s natural sleep cycle. According to experts, the brain functions best with consistent 24-hour sleep rhythms, and disturbing this balance can make recovery more difficult and lead to physical symptoms such as increased fatigue and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

A 2019 study conducted at Harvard University found that mice exposed to disrupted sleep cycles developed larger arterial plaques, suggesting a direct link between sleep quality and heart health. Additionally, research shows that shifting the clock forward in the spring—resulting in the loss of one hour of sleep—increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. In the U.S., hospital visits for heart attacks rise by 24% on the day following the spring clock change.

Traffic accidents also tend to increase after the time change, mainly because drivers need time to adjust to altered lighting conditions. The shift can also affect mental health. As daylight hours shorten and darkness sets in earlier, many people experience mood changes, fatigue, and even depression. Some may develop Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), characterized by symptoms such as low mood, lack of motivation, and a desire to sleep excessively.

In conclusion, while the effects of the clock change in Israel are generally less severe than in more northern countries, it is still important to remain aware of potential changes in mood and sleep patterns.