LANSING, Michigan – As the nation prepares to “fall back” this weekend, a local sleep specialist is weighing in on the larger debate over the nation’s time‑keeping policy. Dr. Anita Shelgikar, a neurologist and sleep specialist at University of Michigan Health, says permanent standard time would better support the body’s natural rhythms and public health.
Why the clock change matters
Each spring and fall, the United States shifts clocks between daylight saving time (DST) and standard time. While the extra hour of sleep in the fall is welcomed by many, the bi‑annual adjustment disrupts the circadian system that regulates sleep, mood, and metabolic function.
Expert view: standard time is healthier
Dr. Shelgikar explained that the body’s internal clock functions most efficiently when it aligns with the natural light‑dark cycle. “Permanent standard time keeps sunrise and sunset in sync with our biology, which can reduce the prevalence of conditions like stroke and obesity,” she said.
Research cited in a recent report supports her claim, indicating that a shift to year‑round standard time could produce greater reductions in stroke and obesity rates than a permanent DST schedule.
President Trump’s position
The Sunshine Protection Act, which would make DST permanent, passed the U.S. House earlier this year but has stalled in the Senate. President Trump has publicly expressed support for keeping DST year‑round, arguing that it benefits evening activities and commerce.
Balancing daylight and health
While Dr. Shelgikar acknowledges that longer evening daylight can boost social activities and sports, she stresses that the health benefits of aligning daily schedules with natural light outweigh those advantages. She also noted that permanent standard time would still provide ample daylight during the spring and summer months, eliminating the need for the spring‑forward clock change.
What’s next?
The debate continues in Congress, with sleep experts urging lawmakers to consider the long‑term health implications of any time‑keeping policy. As the nation prepares for the upcoming clock change, residents of Michigan and beyond are reminded that consistent sleep patterns are essential for overall well‑being.
For now, the conversation highlights a clash between economic convenience and public‑health science, a classic example of how policy decisions can ripple through everyday life.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
