Transitions into and out of daylight saving time compromise sleep and the rest-activity cycles

BMC Physiol. 2008 Feb 12:8:3. doi: 10.1186/1472-6793-8-3.

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of transition out of and into daylight saving time on the rest-activity cycles and sleep. Rest-activity cycles of nine healthy participants aged 20 to 40 years were measured around transitions out of and into daylight saving time on fall 2005 and spring 2006 respectively. Rest-activity cycles were measured using wrist-worn accelerometers. The participants filled in the Morningness-Eveningness and Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaires before starting the study and kept a sleep diary during the study.

Results: Fall transition was more disturbing for the more morning type and spring transition for the more evening type of persons. Individuals having a higher global seasonality score suffered more from the transitions.

Conclusion: Transitions out of and into daylight saving time enhanced night-time restlessness and thereby compromised the quality of sleep.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Physiological / physiology
  • Adult
  • Circadian Rhythm / physiology*
  • Female
  • Finland
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motor Activity / physiology*
  • Rest / physiology*
  • Sleep Disorders, Circadian Rhythm / physiopathology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Time*