What is the Origin of Internal Jet Lag?

The term is an analogy derived from the acute desynchronization experienced after rapid travel across time zones, but is applied here to the chronic internal conflict caused by inconsistent daily timing. It is a critical area of research in modern chronobiology and metabolic health, quantifying the health impact of modern lifestyle choices.

What is the Mechanism of Internal Jet Lag?

The desynchronization occurs when external zeitgebers (time-givers), such as inconsistent light exposure or meal timing, send conflicting signals to peripheral body clocks, which then fail to remain synchronized with the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus (SCN). This failure disrupts the coordinated timing of essential hormonal rhythms, including the nocturnal melatonin release and the diurnal insulin sensitivity curve. The resulting metabolic strain is a significant contributor to insulin resistance and chronic systemic inflammation.

Internal Jet Lag ∞ Area

Internal Jet Lag

Meaning

Internal jet lag, often clinically termed social jet lag or circadian misalignment, is a chronic state of physiological desynchronization caused by a persistent mismatch between an individual’s endogenous biological clock and their actual sleep-wake schedule or social obligations. This disharmony disrupts the precise rhythmic timing of hormone secretion, metabolic processes, and gene expression across multiple organ systems. The chronic systemic stress imposed by this misalignment significantly compromises metabolic health and long-term endocrine function.