"Sleep is one of the key pillars of health, just like diet and exercise," said Dr. Mary Ellen Wells, director of Neurodiagnostic and Sleep Science Division at the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Medicine.
Dr. Wells said that shifting our clocks for Daylight Saving Time, while seemingly harmless, can disrupt our internal rhythms.
"Any time we disrupt our sleep schedule, even by just an hour, it can have detrimental effects on our health," she said.
Over time, these disruptions can lead to issues, like increased risks of cardiovascular problems, strokes, heart attacks, diabetes, and obesity. Sleep changes can also impact mood, focus, and energy levels.
"It's not only about the amount of sleep that we are getting, it's also about the quality of the sleep," she noted.
To maintain good rest, she recommends consistent bedtime and wake-up times, even on weekends, and avoiding heavy meals, caffeine, and screen time before bed. Morning sunlight also helps regulate the body's internal clock.
While smart rings, watches and other sleep-tracking gadgets are becoming more popular, Dr. Wells said the best way to assess sleep quality is by how you feel, not by the numbers on a screen.
"With devices, you know, there's not a lot of research out there that is proven for how effective they all are," she said. "So, it's important to really think about how you're feeling and not necessarily a number that's shown on a screen."
For those struggling with sleep, she advised seeking help, as nearly 100 recognized sleep disorders are highly treatable.
SEE ALSO: Risk of deer-related crashes increase when daylight saving time ends, clocks fall back an hour