Horizon Season 2009 Episode 5 The Secret Life of Your Bodyclock

In Horizon season 2009 episode 5, titled "The Secret Life of Your Bodyclock," viewers are taken on a journey through the world of circadian rhythms and their impact on our daily lives. Host Michael Mosley explores the importance of our biological clocks and how they regulate everything from when we sleep to when we feel hungry.

The episode begins with Mosley meeting with a researcher at the University of Manchester to discuss the latest findings on circadian rhythms. They discuss how our bodies are wired to function best at certain times of the day and how disruptions to our body clocks can have negative health effects.

To demonstrate the power of the body clock, Mosley participates in an experiment where he attempts to reset his sleep cycle. He spends a week living in a dark cave with no access to external cues such as light or sound. The experiment is designed to disrupt his natural sleep cycle and force his body to reset to a new schedule. Mosley documents his experiences in the cave, which include struggling to sleep and feeling constantly hungry due to the lack of external cues.

The episode also features interviews with experts in the field of circadian rhythms, including a researcher who studies the impact of shift work on health. She explains how the body clock can be thrown off by irregular sleep schedules, leading to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and other health problems.

Another scientist discusses the role of genetics in determining our body clocks. She explains how certain genes can impact our biological rhythms, and how understanding this can help us to personalize treatments for sleep disorders.

Towards the end of the episode, Mosley meets with a sleep coach who works with athletes to optimize their performance through proper sleep hygiene. The coach shares tips on how to establish a healthy sleep routine, including avoiding screens before bed and creating a relaxing sleep environment.

Overall, "The Secret Life of Your Bodyclock" is a fascinating exploration of the vital role that circadian rhythms play in our lives. From the impact of shift work to the benefits of a good night's sleep, the episode offers valuable insights into how we can optimize our biological clocks for better health and well-being.