Long shifts disrupt cortisol and circadian rhythms.

      The stress hormone cortisol follows an internal schedule: in the morning it helps to wake up, and by night it decreases, allowing the body to rest. However, long working shifts, as a new study has shown, can disrupt this natural mechanism. Let's discuss the dangers of overworking and how it affects the human biological clock.

      The modern rhythm of life for many people includes overtime work, night shifts, and overworking. Endocrinologist Zuhra Pavlova draws attention to new scientific data: long working shifts can seriously disrupt circadian rhythms and cortisol levels.

      What is cortisol and how does it work?

      Cortisol is the main stress hormone in the human body. It follows a strict daily rhythm. In the morning, its level naturally rises to help wake up, energize, and engage in daytime activities. By evening, cortisol concentration decreases, signaling the body that it’s time to relax and prepare for sleep. This rhythm is an important part of the normal functioning of all body systems.

      What did the new study show?

      Scientists compared people who work on a regular schedule with those who are forced to work double shifts. This refers to shifts lasting 12 hours or more, and sometimes nearly a full day with minimal breaks for rest.

      The results were telling. People with a normal schedule maintained their usual healthy rhythm: cortisol was high in the morning and significantly decreased by night.

      For workers on double shifts, the picture was different. Their circadian rhythm was disrupted. During the night, when cortisol should be at its lowest, it remained elevated. Additionally, the difference between morning and night levels of the hormone significantly decreased.

      What does a rhythm disruption mean?

      In simple terms, the body of a person working 12 hours or more loses its sense of time. It continues to be in an awake mode even when it should be resting and recovering. This state can lead to chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, decreased immunity, and other health problems.

      Doctors recommend paying closer attention to work and rest schedules, especially for those who often work overtime. Regular overworking is not only a matter of productivity but also a risk to hormonal health.

      Photo by the author

      Yulia Kazamarova

      More news about the event:

      Long shifts disrupt cortisol and circadian rhythms

      The stress hormone cortisol follows an internal schedule: in the morning it helps to wake up, and by night it decreases, allowing the body to rest. 11:20 23.04.2026 Zainsk-Inform - Zainsk

      Long shifts disrupt cortisol and circadian rhythms

      The stress hormone cortisol follows an internal schedule: in the morning it helps to wake up, and by night it decreases, allowing the body to rest. 11:16 23.04.2026 News of Zainsk - Zainsk