Fluctuating or irregular work shifts are an integral part of the modern-day workforce. Such irregular working hours or shifts in the long term can misbalance your hormones. A study shown at the 25th European Congress of Endocrinology reveals that irregular work schedules for four weeks among female mice lead to malfunction of their biological clocks and affect their fertility.
A consultant named Dr. Prachi Benara also helped experts identify the link between fluctuating work shifts and infertility. She has said that the circadian rhythm is formed by the internal clocks of the body, coordinated to a 24-hour cycle mainly by deviations in daytime light.
Inappropriate light exposure can easily disrupt body clock
These clocks control biological procedures and activities, like reproduction, digestion, the sleep-wake cycle, and hormone secretion. Inappropriate light exposure, like light at night, can easily disrupt these clocks. Night shifts and fluctuation in work shifts irregular menstrual, reduced rates of fertility, and an elevated risk of miscarriages and early births. Experts share some essential tips to alleviate the risk of infertility led by irregular working hours.
People who work in shifts should try to maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat a balanced diet, and indulge in physical activity. They can try meditation to manage stress levels. They should make a sleep schedule and should sleep for 6 to 8 hours in quite a dark and comfortable environment.
Dr. Benara suggests that aerobic exercise for 30 to 40 minutes regularly can improve physical health and help sleep better. She says that walking and engaging in yoga can also help improve the overall health of people working in shifts.
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People working night shifts should reduce their exposure to bright light to manage the circadian rhythm of the body. They should use blue-light-blocking glasses or applications before going to sleep. Such people should also get in touch with people who have similar work schedules and share coping strategies to manage the challenges of irregular work hours.
People who work in shifts can seek support from family members and other experts as well.