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Seasonal time changes in Europe

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2026-10-18 07:52 UTC → 2026-10-26 10:25 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The transition from daylight saving time to winter time is scheduled for the night between Saturday, October 24, and Sunday, October 25, 2026, when clocks will be set back one hour from 3:00 AM to 2:00 AM. Medical research has highlighted specific physiological risks associated with this shift. Studies in journals such as Internal and Emergency Medicine and Sleep Medicine have noted correlations between seasonal time changes and increased risks of heart attacks, strokes, and traffic accidents. The disruption to circadian rhythms can cause imbalances in melatonin and serotonin levels, potentially leading to fatigue, mood swings, and fluctuations in blood pressure. While the change provides an extra hour of sleep, the most critical period for physiological adaptation is typically between the third and fifth day after the change, though full adjustment may take up to two weeks. Health experts, including the National Institute of Sleep and Vigilance, note that this shift can cause ‘social jetlag.’ While digital devices often adjust automatically, users are advised to manually check analog clocks, bedside alarms, and household appliances like heating systems. Furthermore, physician Beatrice Mahler notes that disruptions to the central biological clock can impact sleep, hunger, and alertness. Metabolic processes may also be affected; for instance, slower stomach emptying could lead to higher blood glucose and triglyceride levels after meals. These metabolic disturbances are considered reversible as the body resynchronizes, typically within one to three days. In Serbia, the shift will result in significantly shorter days, with daylight duration decreasing to approximately 10 hours by late October. Sunset data indicates that on Saturday, the sun is expected to set at 17:39, whereas on Sunday, sunset will occur earlier at 16:37. Total darkness is anticipated around 19:12 on Saturday and 18:11 on Sunday. Experts advise that individuals—particularly the elderly and those with chronic conditions like heart disease—monitor their health and medication schedules. Recommendations to ease the transition include maintaining consistent sleep patterns, increasing daylight exposure, exercising regularly, and avoiding late-evening caffeine.

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