Circadian Health Glossary
Circadian Dead Zone
The Circadian Dead Zone refers to a specific time during the circadian cycle when the body is least responsive to external light cues, such as sunlight or artificial light. During this period, exposure to light has little to no impact on shifting the body’s internal clock or influencing melatonin production.
When Does the Circadian Dead Zone Occur?
The circadian dead zone typically occurs in the late afternoon or early evening, when the body’s biological clock is neither advancing nor delaying. At this time, the circadian system is relatively stable, and light exposure does not significantly affect sleep-wake cycles.
Why Is the Circadian Dead Zone Important?
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Light Therapy Timing: Understanding the circadian dead zone helps optimize the timing of light therapy for maximum effectiveness.
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Sleep Optimization: Avoiding misaligned light exposure during non-dead zone periods can help maintain proper circadian health.
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Shift Work and Jet Lag: Managing light exposure outside of the dead zone is critical for adjusting to new schedules or time zones.