Time change: Mini jet lag makes many Germans sick!

Time change: Mini jet lag makes many Germans sick!

The time change ensures more than just a changed time frame; It has a noticeable impact on the well -being of numerous people. Whether you feel limp afterwards or develop sleep problems - the change that takes place every spring and autumn brings with it an unexpected challenge for many. This was also confirmed by the DAK surveys, in which 29 percent of the respondents reported health problems after the changeover, whereby women were more affected.

A natural part of our biology is the internal clock, which is closely connected to the light conditions. According to studies by the Institute for Medical Psychology at the Ludwig Maximilians University in Munich, our sleep-wake rhythm is not only determined by the clock, but much more by daylight. In the darkness, melatonin, the sleep hormone, is produced, while light is released in cortisol to wake up. The time change can mess this natural rhythm considerably, which means that many people experience similar symptoms to a jet lag.

Health effects and complaints

The symptoms are diverse and can range from fatigue to concentration disorders. A compilation of experts shows the most common symptoms of the so-called "mini jet lag":

• Müdigkeit
• Einschlafprobleme und andere Schlafstörungen
• Probleme bei der Konzentration
• Schwankung der Herzfrequenz
• Appetitlosigkeit
• Verdauungsprobleme
• Gereiztheit
• Depressive Verstimmungen

The findings from the USA are also worrying, which show an increase in fatal traffic accidents and treatment errors after changing the time. It is believed that the weakness of concentration is the main cause of these increased incidents. However, the health risks of such a change overall are not to be classified as serious. An increased risk of heart attacks is also being discussed, but this remains controversial because many factors can influence such an increase.

Preparation for the time change

In order to adjust the body to the time change as best, experts have put together some helpful tips. Especially when switching to winter time, it can be helpful to spend a lot of time outdoors to use the light intensity. "This helps to stay awake better," explains sleep doctor Alfred Wiater. A daily walk is recommended to keep consistency and activate the circulation.

To prepare for the summer time, in which you “lose” an hour of sleep, sleep researchers advise you to gradually go to bed a few days beforehand and thus get used to the new rhythm. "This way the changeover is not that hard," explains Hans-Günter Weess. These measures are particularly valuable for people with sleep disorders.

In addition, it is advisable to stay in bed a little longer the day after the changeover. A healthy diet also ensures the feel -good atmosphere. In the evening, no difficult food should no longer be consumed, and the enjoyment of alcohol should also be reduced, since it can have a negative impact on sleep quality.

The scientists and doctors agree: Licht has an antidepressant and activating effect, which is why the stay outdoors is recommended during the summer time. This makes it easier to manage the time change, and the inner clock can adapt more easily to the new lighting conditions.

For those who have problems with sleep despite recommendations, breathing exercises or even a good book before sleeping offer an alternative to relax the body and to survive the time change. The challenge remains to keep the internal clock healthy and regular.

In order to obtain extensive information about the effects of the time change on health, a look at deeper analyzes, such as you are provided by www.infranken.de, be advantageous.