What's Happening?
The American Heart Association (AHA) has published a study in the Circulation journal emphasizing the role of circadian rhythm in cardiovascular and metabolic health. The study outlines how disruptions
in the body's internal clock can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. Factors such as irregular sleep schedules, late-night eating, shift work, and exposure to artificial light at night can disrupt circadian alignment, affecting metabolic outcomes. The research highlights that artificial light exposure is linked to a 34% greater risk of cardiovascular disease, underscoring the importance of maintaining circadian health.
Why It's Important?
The findings from the AHA provide a new perspective on health behavior, particularly in relation to public health. Populations such as shift workers and those living in urban environments with high levels of light pollution are more susceptible to circadian rhythm disruptions. This research adds to the growing body of work on cardiovascular risks, emphasizing the strong links between pollution and heart disease. By publicizing this information, individuals can be encouraged to pay more attention to their internal body clocks and take preventive actions to maintain heart health.
What's Next?
To support circadian health, individuals can prioritize regular sleep-wake schedules, avoid bright lights at night, and seek morning sunlight exposure. Adjusting meal and exercise timing can also help align circadian rhythms. Reducing exposure to pollution through lifestyle changes, such as eating more plant-based foods and using natural cleaning products, can further support heart health.
