I am writing this entry on the morning following the daylight savings time change (DST). Most of us despise this “spring forward” by an hour date because we “lose” an hour the following day. The concept of DST was developed by Benjamin Franklin with the thought that this would economize candle usage and save people money ( I bet eggs didn’t cost $ 8 bucks in those days!). DST was formally enacted during World War 1 to allow for more sunlight in the summer months as part of a global attempt to conserve energy.
Are there any detrimental health issues attributed to DST? The answer is “YES”:
- Studies have shown an increase in number of heart attacks and stroke
- The number of hospitalizations increase
- The risk of fatal car accidents increases by 6%
- Mood issues seem to worsen
- Impact on sleep appears to last for months
- Inflammatory markers in response to stress are higher
So, with the majority of Americans favoring the termination of the spring and fall clock changes AND the negative impact on health attributed to DST, why do we, as a country, still “spring forward and fall back”? This question is a good one for our elected officials. But for now, I am signing off (at 630 am instead of 530 am).
Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is? The group Chicago does!
