Using your phone, watching TV, or finishing up work on your computer before bed can keep you from falling asleep at night. Technology does mess up your sleep, and we’ve got the scoop on why.
Digital devices and LED lights emit blue light that is similar to the sun’s bright rays. When used at night, this confuses the body’s internal clock. This artificial blue light activates photosensitive cells that suppresses the production of melatonin. Healthy melatonin levels are necessary for satisfying sleep and for good immune function! On the other hand, sleep deprivation is linked to obesity, diabetes, and inflammation.
In a 2-week study, participants wore blue light resistant glasses for 3 hours each night before going to bed. As the participants wore their glasses, their nightly screen time routines remained the same as they were before the study. By the end of the study, test subjects saw a nearly 60% increase in melatonin production. That’s an even greater increase in melatonin than taking over-the-counter supplements! The participants also slept better and fell asleep faster.
Blue light is not all bad. After all, our bodies need sufficient amounts of it during the day to regulate our sleep-wake cycle. Sunlight is always going to be the best way to soak up blue light and Vitamin D, so don’t forget to enjoy the outdoors!
Half of Americans reported that sleep issues are negatively affecting their lives. If you are one of those people, contact our office for a holistic approach to getting better sleep.
