An overwhelming body of research is finding that the harsh blue light emitted by digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops and TVs wreaks havoc on our sleep, cognitive function, and overall health. (R, R) This is because short wavelength blue light is a color temperature that historically was only emitted by the sun. Today, it’s everywhere, putting our brains in a perpetual state of arousal and thwarting many important processes meant to occur as our bodies wind down at night.
Suppressing the release of melatonin from our pineal gland is among these damaging effects. Melatonin is most famously known for making us feel sleepy, but is also involved in these key aspects of health:
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Defense against oxidative stress (R)
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Blood pressure regulation (R)
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Protection against cancer (R)
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Bone production (R)
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Eye health (R)
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Reproductive health (R)
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Weight loss (R)
While avoiding blue light exposure past sundown may be the best strategy, it might also be wishful thinking in the modern world with our modern responsibilities (and let’s be real, there are still 2 more seasons of Game of Thrones to come!). So here are 5 ways to safeguard yourself against blue light while still getting to do (and watch) what you need to.
