Scrapping the biannual time changes in Manitoba is a positive step, but opting for daylight time over standard time is a questionable decision, according to a sleep medicine expert. Dr. Michael Mak, a psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto, expressed concerns about the potential negative impact, especially on students.
Dr. Mak emphasized the importance of reevaluating the decision, pointing out that extended periods without morning sunlight during the winter months could lead to academic challenges and increased risk of depression. He highlighted the significance of morning light exposure in stabilizing the body’s circadian rhythm and promoting better mood and energy.
The recent announcement by Premier Wab Kinew that Manitoba will permanently observe daylight time, based on the results of a province-wide survey, has sparked mixed reactions. While the majority of respondents supported ending seasonal time changes, Dr. Mak and other experts caution against the implications of choosing daylight time as a permanent solution.
Rebecca Robillard, a neuropsychologist and sleep researcher at the University of Ottawa, echoed Dr. Mak’s concerns, advocating for standard time as the optimal choice for health, safety, and productivity. She emphasized the adverse effects of disrupting the natural cycle of sunlight on the body’s biological functions and overall well-being.
Despite the convenience of not adjusting clocks twice a year, experts warn about the potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to artificial light patterns. Maintaining a consistent wake time and maximizing exposure to natural morning light were suggested as strategies to mitigate the negative effects of the time change.
While some individuals, like Hannah Cabey, welcome the move towards permanent daylight time for personal preferences and activities, others, like Cabey’s husband, prefer the stability of standard time. The debate between daylight time and standard time continues, with experts advocating for a balanced approach that prioritizes the body’s natural rhythms for optimal health and well-being.