Abstract
This study investigates the short-term effects of an acute circadian fluctuation protocol on the cardiovascular and metabolic health of young recreationally active college students. While the deleterious effects of sleep deprivation on a person’s health are wide reaching and well established, circadian misalignment—the discrepancy between biological clocks and external cues—remain under investigated. This research highlights “social jet lag,” a common phenomenon among young people wherein inconsistent sleep and wake times driven by social, school, work, or other commitments creates irregularity in hormonal rhythms, autonomic, and metabolic processes; emphasizing the emerging recognition that not just how much we sleep, but when we sleep, is critical for maintaining long-term health. Social jet lag potentially increases the risk for cardiometabolic and cardiovascular disease. The findings of this study underscore the importance of keeping a consistent sleep schedule to optimize health and physical performance.
Publication Date
Spring 4-1-2025
Journal Title
Inquiry Journal
Mentor
Michael Brian
Publisher
Durham, NH: Hamel Center for Undergraduate Research, University of New Hampshire
Document Type
Article
Recommended Citation
Dennett, Gabe, "The Short-Term Effects of Fluctuating Sleep Timing on Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health" (2025). Inquiry Journal. 7.
https://scholars.unh.edu/inquiry_spring_2025/7