The internal clock is the conductor of our body. Nestled at the heart of the brain (in the hypothalamus), it imposes a rhythm on the organism, called a circadian rhythm. The internal clock regulates many functions such as the watch/sleep system, body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate or mood. This regulation is made over a period of 24 hours.
What are the symptoms of a deregulated internal clock?
The internal clock is regulated thanks to external factors such as exposure to natural light for example. As soon as these factors are modified (Jet Lag, work in offbeat hours), this results in symptoms that can be disabling on a daily basis:
- Diurnal sleeping;
- A drop in vigilance;
- Memory and decision -making problems;
- Insomnia;
- Difficulties in falling asleep or night awakenings;
- Desires to sleep when it is not necessary;
- Stress and mood changes;
- A loss of appetite or on the contrary frequent snack desires.
How to take care of your internal clock?
Here are some good habits to take so as not to disturb your internal clock:
- Try to go to bed every night at the same time;
- Exhibit yourself in daylight every morning;
- Limit your coffee consumption (never after 3 p.m.);
- Avoid sport at the end of the day (this increases body temperature and delays falling asleep);
- Eat at fixed times and avoid dinner within 3 hours of bedtime.
If these changes in your lifestyle have not reduced your sleep, mood and appetite disorders, and they have been going on for more than three months, talk to your doctor.