How Blue Light May be Affecting your Health

Blue lights create blue wavelengths, hence the name, and is considered positive during the day as it helps increase mood, reaction time, and attention span. However, it can be very disruptive at night and can throw off your circadian rhythm, which is your body’s biological clock. Blue light is emitted from electronics with screens such as your phone, and energy efficient lights. Being subjected to blue wavelengths at night repress the secretion of melatonin, which is produced by the pineal gland and is responsible for regulating sleep.

Research has shown that not getting enough sleep at night can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, depression, premature aging, and diabetes. It is important to try to limit your use of screens that produce blue light at least 2 hours before going to sleep, this will help preserve your circadian rhythm, thus allowing you to go to sleep at a reasonable time. You can also opt for red lights at night, which have the least power to affect your circadian rhythm or the production of melatonin in your body. Lastly, try to get as much natural daylight as possible, as this will increase your ability to fall asleep at night, and keep you much more alert and awake during the day.