How Circadian Rhythm Affects Sleep Wake Cycle The circadian rhythm helps the endocrine system regulate hormones that aid in many processes. At the usual timings of the meals, certain proteins are produced to aid in digestion. It also coordinates physical systems like the digestive system. Hence the circadian rhythm is linked to day and night.
The SCN has high light sensitivity and is the most influential in maintaining the sleep wake cycle and sends a signal to sync the body’s internal clock. At various times the clock, genes in the SCN send signals to optimize and regulate the activity in the body. It is found in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus, SCN. The circadian rhythm in the body is connected to a clock in the brain called the circadian pacemaker. It works by ensuring that the internal processes are optimized in 24 hours. The word circadian rhythm is derived from the Latin word Circa Diem meaning around one day. Circadian Rhythm Sleep – How does it Work? Stress and the food that you eat also affects the circadian rhythm. When there is light outside, the melatonin production is cut off, and that makes you awake. When it is night, the body releases melatonin, and that helps in falling asleep. A few of the important external factors that affect the circadian rhythm sleep are light and temperature. Additionally, it also helps in regulating the temperature of the body.Įxternal factors: It is well-known that external factors affect the sleep wake cycle. This pineal gland produces a hormone called melatonin which regulates the sleep wake cycle and also induces sleep. It is in the hypothalamus located in the brain near the skull. Internal factors: One of the key factors that influence the circadian rhythm is the pineal gland. Many factors influence the sleep wake cycle. Suggested read: How Effective Are Sleep Trackers? Factors Affecting the Sleep Wake Cycle and Circadian Rhythm What is interesting is, the circadian rhythm is present even in plants and animals. Thus maintaining the cycle is important for the overall wellbeing of the person. Many factors can influence the circadian rhythm of sleep, and when it is not working properly, it can lead to sleep problems and even insomnia. Things like light influence this clock, and hence the sleep wake cycle is tied to night and day. Various parts of the body synchronize with the clock in the brain and follow the circadian rhythm. Among the essential processes, the circadian rhythm is the sleep wake cycle. A circadian rhythm is a natural internal process that runs in the body on a 24-hour cycle and carries out important processes and functions.
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