In the UK the clocks will go back 1 hour at 2am this Sunday (28th October)
When the clocks go back, the UK is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
Although many people feel gloomy about the long dark nights this brings, research has shown there are some benefits!
It has been found that by sleeping in total darkness for around eight hours each night during Winter you can protect yourself from a range of ailments.
The benefits include:
Weight Loss! - Studies have shown that during the Summer months where you may not sleep in total darkness you crave more sugary food. Also, not getting enough sleep can increase levels of ghrelin - the hunger hormone
Lower risk of Diabetes! - Research has shown that those who sleep in total darkness have lower blood sugar levels, decreasing the risk of developing Diabetes
Less Depression! - Although lack of daylight can trigger low mood in those prone to SAD, research has shown that lack of exposure to darkness can also be a depression risk. Meaning sleeping for longer in total darkness may help stop these changes in mood
Reduce the risk of suffering heart disease! - Being able to sleep in total darkness has been shown as a direct link to reduced risk of of stroke and heart attack. This was shown in research which suggested that night-shift workers who had to catch up on sleep during the day had a 40% higher risk of heart attacks
So don't forget to change your clocks back this Sunday and remember there may be some benefits to the dark nights!
Source : http://www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/health/clocks-go-back-beat-the-blues-1393196
