Operating on the approximately 24-hour circadian rhythm that mirrors the earth’s day-night cycle, the circadian clock plays a vital role in regulating the timing of essential bodily processes. As such, the circadian clock is tightly connected to human health. Chronic circadian rhythm disruption, such as that typically experienced by shift workers, significantly increases the risk […]
While most people rightfully look at melatonin as a hormone that is instrumental in regulating sleep cycles, its benefits stretch well beyond getting a good night of rest. Recent research into melatonin and heart disease has provided more clues as to how melatonin can help to negate some of the risks of heart disease. This […]
It is a classic “chicken-or-egg” argument: What came first in the evolutionary development of all species of animals — sleep or the brain? When looking at the origin of sleep, the question often leads to speculation about the evolution of this imperative biological act. New research continues to shed light on this fascinating debate. Sleep […]
One of the most important things we can learn from chronobiology is that while the majority of us may live an urban, gleamingly modern lifestyle, we cannot really separate ourselves from the ancient, more agrarian rhythms we evolved to over countless generations. Not if we hope to achieve and maintain optimal health and fitness, that […]
Modern medicine is making great strides in the understanding and management of diabetes. One of the most exciting developments is the relationship between diabetes, a near epidemic-level chronic disease, and the circadian rhythm. Diabetes is, at essence, a metabolic system disorder, a malfunction in the metabolism of glucose that disrupts the finely balanced system that […]
Most people are familiar with the advice to “sleep on it” when faced with difficult de... [Read More][weiterlesen]
Researchers at Northwestern Medicine investigated whether adjusting the nighttime fasting ... [Read More][weiterlesen]
A research team led by scientists from several Japanese institutions has identified a comp... [Read More][weiterlesen]
