Winter time transition approaches with health and daylight implications

The transition to winter time is approaching, involving a one-hour setback that affects both mechanical clocks and human biological rhythms. While the change provides an extra hour of sleep, it disrupts the body's circadian rhythm, potentially causing imbalances in melatonin and serotonin levels. This disruption can lead to fatigue, mood swings, and fluctuations in blood pressure.

Medical research highlights potential health risks associated with seasonal time changes. Studies published in journals such as Internal and Emergency Medicine and Sleep Medicine have noted correlations between time shifts and increased risks of heart attacks, strokes, and traffic accidents. The most critical period for physiological adaptation is typically between the third and fifth day after the change, though full adjustment can take up to two weeks.

In Serbia, the shift will result in significantly shorter days. Following the time change, sunset in Belgrade will occur much earlier, with total darkness arriving significantly sooner than in October. For example, by late October, daylight duration will decrease to approximately 10 hours.