What is described as the "body clock" that tells our bodies when to sleep, wake, and eat?

The term that is commonly referred to as the "body clock" that regulates when we sleep, wake, and eat is known as the Circadian Rhythm. This internal process follows a roughly 24-hour cycle, responding to external cues like light and darkness, which helps to synchronize our biological functions with the day-night cycle. It is crucial for regulating various bodily functions including sleep patterns, hormone release, eating habits, and body temperature.

Circadian rhythms are not just limited to humans; they are found in many living organisms. This intricate system has evolved to optimize behaviors and physiological processes according to the time of day, making it essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. The terminology associated with circadian rhythms often overlaps with other related concepts including biological clocks and chronobiology, but the specific phrase "Circadian Rhythm" is most accurate when describing the system that governs the timing of sleep, wakefulness, and feeding.