How Blue Light From Electronics Affects Health

By Lana Bandoim

Phones, tablets, computers and other devices emit blue light that can affect people’s health. This type of light can hurt the circadian rhythm and make it harder to fall asleep. Consider the impact of blue light before reading another email on a tablet or phone in bed.  

How Does Blue Light Affect the Body?

Blue light can make people more alert. It can affect attention and reaction time. During the day, these are helpful factors. However, blue light can become a problem at night. The body receives confusing messages that make it more difficult to fall asleep.

Melatonin is a hormone that helps people sleep. It is made naturally in the body, but it is also sold as a supplement. Melatonin levels are low during the day and increase at night. However, blue light influences melatonin in the body by suppressing this hormone.  

Sleep Problems

The biggest problem with blue light is its impact on sleep. People who are exposed to blue light at night take longer to fall asleep. In addition, they have fewer dreams and have a hard time waking up in the morning.

Diabetes and Obesity

Researchers have found that messing with the circadian rhythm can increase the risk of diabetes and obesity. Changing the body clock can decrease the levels of leptin. It is a hormone responsible for satiety, so you feel hungry all the time when it is low. In addition, blood sugar levels can increase.

How to Reduce Blue Light

The easiest way to reduce exposure to blue light is to avoid using electronic devices at night. Another option is to use the blue light filters that are available on some gadgets. These filters automatically get rid of the blue light at night. You can dim the light on most electronic devices. There are also special glasses and goggles that can block blue light.

It is important to remember that blue light can come from other sources. LED light bulbs and fluorescent bulbs tend to emit more blue light than incandescent bulbs. Consider switching to dim red night lights.

Pay attention to your blue light exposure from electronic devices and other sources. It can have a negative impact on health and affect sleep cycles. Try to reduce or eliminate blue light before going to bed at night. Stop using the phone, tablet or computer in bed to read or catch up on emails. Switch to paper books, magazines or newspapers.   

To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Gilbert, Ariz.

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