BC Ditching Daylight Saving: Why Experts Say It’s Bad for Your Health

British Columbia is poised to grow the first jurisdiction in Canada to make daylight saving time permanent, ending the twice-yearly ritual of “spring forward” and “fall back.” The change, slated to capture effect this November, follows overwhelming support from residents – over 90%, according to Premier David Eby – who favor an extra hour of daylight at the end of the day. While the move is popular, it’s likewise sparking debate among sleep scientists and public health experts about the potential impacts on our bodies and well-being.

The decision comes as many regions across North America continue to grapple with the merits of permanent daylight saving time versus permanent standard time. While the idea of ditching the clock changes altogether has broad appeal, the optimal approach remains a subject of ongoing discussion.

The History of Time Changes and Why We Do Them

Daylight saving time (DST) isn’t a new phenomenon. It was first widely adopted during World War I as a way to conserve energy. The idea is simple: by shifting daylight hours later into the evening, people would need less artificial light, thereby reducing energy consumption. While, the energy-saving benefits have been repeatedly questioned, and studies have yielded mixed results. As the AP reported in 2024, the evidence supporting significant energy savings is limited.

Why Experts Are Wary of Permanent Daylight Saving Time

The core concern among sleep experts centers around our natural circadian rhythms – the internal biological clocks that regulate sleep-wake cycles, hormone release, and other essential bodily functions. These rhythms are heavily influenced by light exposure. Emily Manoogian, a senior staff scientist at the Salk Institute and an executive member of the Center for Circadian Biology at UC San Diego, explains that our bodies are designed to synchronize with daylight. “Light is the largest cue to coordinate behavior,” she said. When we wake up and are exposed to sunlight, it signals our brains to initiate wakefulness and prepare the body for activity.

Permanent daylight saving time disrupts this natural alignment, particularly during the winter months. Waking up in darkness can make it harder to perceive alert and can negatively impact mood, cognitive function, and overall health. Manoogian points to a past experiment in the 1970s, when the United States briefly adopted permanent daylight saving time. “It was so awful that they reverted it almost immediately,” she said, noting that the change led to increased car accidents and even fatalities. NPR detailed this historical experiment, highlighting the negative consequences that prompted a swift return to standard time.

The Health Impacts: Beyond Sleepiness

The consequences of disrupting our circadian rhythms extend beyond simply feeling tired. Research suggests a link between DST and an increased risk of several health problems, including heart attacks, strokes, and metabolic disorders. A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences in September 2025 found that permanent daylight saving time could lead to a reduction in strokes and obesity, but less so than permanent standard time. The study emphasized that aligning our clocks with the natural light-dark cycle is crucial for maintaining optimal health.

Manoogian emphasizes that the risks aren’t limited to cardiovascular health. “We recognize that sleeping, eating, getting light at the wrong time is a huge risk for cardiometabolic disease,” she said. “It’s shown to increase health span and even lifespan.”

Why British Columbia is Moving Forward Anyway

Despite the concerns raised by health experts, British Columbia’s government believes the benefits of permanent daylight saving time outweigh the risks for its residents. Premier Eby explained that people in the province are accustomed to dark mornings, particularly during the winter months, due to its western location within the time zone. “We’re on the very western edge of the time zone and so we have dark mornings anyway,” he said. “People really want that hour at the end of the day.”

Mitigating the Effects of Time Changes (Even Without Them)

While British Columbia is opting for permanent daylight saving time, individuals can take steps to minimize the disruption to their circadian rhythms, regardless of the time of year. Manoogian recommends prioritizing morning light exposure, even if it means turning on bright lights indoors. She also stresses the importance of getting adequate sleep – typically seven to nine hours per night – and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Consistent meal times can also help regulate the body’s internal clock.

For families with children, Manoogian suggests gradually adjusting bedtime and wake-up times in the days leading up to any time change, even if it’s just a small increment each day. This can help ease the transition and minimize disruption to sleep patterns.

What’s Next for Time Zone Debates?

The decision in British Columbia is likely to fuel further debate about the best way to manage our time. While the province has sought an exemption from the existing rules to allow for permanent DST, it requires approval from the federal government. Other jurisdictions in North America are also considering similar changes, and the debate is expected to continue as researchers gather more data on the health and economic impacts of different time zone policies. The ongoing research will be crucial in informing future decisions and ensuring that any changes prioritize public health and well-being.

For now, residents of British Columbia can look forward to an end to the twice-yearly clock changes, but it’s vital to be aware of the potential health implications and take steps to mitigate any negative effects.