your body on daylight savings: 5 things worth knowing
Losing an hour of sleep sounds so minor… until you're inexplicably exhausted and craving sugar by 3pm. Your body genuinely feels this shift, it’s like a mini jetlag. Here's what's actually happening, and how to help yourself through it.
1. Your circadian rhythm takes about a week to adjust.This isn't just about sleep. Your internal clock also regulates cortisol, melatonin, digestion, and mood. So if you feel a little off for a few days, that's not in your head. It's real, and it passes.
2. Morning light is your best friend right now. Get outside within 30–60 minutes of waking up for 10 mins. We call this your 10 before 10. Natural light tells your brain the day has started and helps suppress that lingering melatonin. Even 10 minutes on a cloudy day counts. We promise it's worth it.
3. This is a great week to lean on magnesium. Magnesium glycinate or L-threonate in the evening supports deeper, more restorative sleep and helps your nervous system wind down. This especially helpful when your sleep schedule is adjusting. We recommend starting with 300mg.
4. Try shifting your meals a little earlier. Your digestion runs on a rhythm too. Eating your biggest meal slightly earlier for the first week can actually help your body recalibrate faster.
5. Guard your mornings and evenings. While your body is adjusting, the first and last hour of your day matter most. Try to ease into the morning without jumping straight to your phone, and wind down without a real book or meditation before bed. Your cortisol and melatonin will thank you.
Feeling inexplicably exhausted? It could be time for a spring tune up. Meet with our functional medicine or nutrition team to talk about food, supplements and labs.