AUSTIN (KXAN) -- As we continue to lose daylight this fall, it's important to prioritize your sleep schedules to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Meteorologist Tommy House sat down with Dr. Raymond Charles Perkins from Baylor Scott & White Health to learn more.
Editor’s Note: The transcript of this live Q&A has been edited for brevity and clarity.
Meteorologist Tommy House: What are some effects that the brain has when we start to lose daylight?
Dr. Raymond Perkins: We live by a circadian rhythm. This rhythm is a day-long, and primarily affected by light. Circadian rhythm regulates hormonal release, which can alter your sleep.
Daylight is an important driver of the circadian rhythm. Being out of sequence because of less daylight can feel like having jet lag. People who have difficulty with the seasons will notice issues related to irritability. You may also develop insomnia and feelings of hunger or weight gain as the days get shorter.
House: What are some tips to help keep your circadian rhythm in tune?
Perkins: As we go through fall, our melatonin levels increase because of less daylight, so there's a tendency to want to go to bed earlier or sleep in later. The best thing you can do is have a strict wake-up time every day.
One of the best things you can do is get out in the light, even if it's cloudy. Being outside is a really big improvement in being able to handle seasonal effects on our mood and sleep. Bright light early in the morning is best. Exercise helps too.
