Andrew Smith of Cardiff University, who carried out the second study, said workers should try to avoid split-shifts and other schedule changes that put their body clocks out of kilter.

BBC: NEWS | Health | Shift work linked to health risks

He said legislation which forced companies to stick to particular schedules was unlikely, but he said people who did work split-shifts could minimise the risks to their health by avoiding fatty and sugary snacks at night.

BBC: NEWS | Health | Shift work linked to health risks

The impact on social interactions of these technological advancements has gone unrecognized until analyzed in retrospect with the examiners split on whether the societal shifts were for the better or worse.

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