Careful! Blue Light From Smartphone Screens Is More Dangerous Than We Think
February 7, 2019 10:06 By Fabiosa
Perhaps everyone has at some point heard that modern-day gadgets have a negative impact on the health of children and adults. However, recently scientists have started alarming us because of the light which smartphone screens emit. They believe that it's not only harmful to one's eyesight, but also affects other organs. What is blue light and should we be afraid of it? Let's find out.
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Harmful for health…
In some of the studies, researchers have tried to establish a correlation between light emissions and illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases; however, they failed to prove that a direct link exists. At the same time, it was discovered that blue light affects the production of melatonin – a hormone which regulates body rhythms. As a result, a person's sleeping schedule is disrupted, which in turn affects other spheres of his or her life.
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Also, it is considered that tablet, TV, and smartphone emissions have a negative influence on our eye retina, destroying the cells of this organ. But the light's negative effects on our skin is still being studied. However, if a person has skin problems to begin with, then the blue light may make the state worse, causing inflammation, pigmentation disorders, and releasing free radicals, which may lead to premature skin deterioration.
The main damage the blue light does in the dark when a striking contrast appears between the room and the screen. The lower this contrast is, the better. Therefore, it's not advisable to work at the computer in the dark; you should turn on the room light. The same goes for other gadgets.
…or not?
Despite the scientists' outrage, there are other studies that persuade people to believe the opposite. Ajith Karunarathne, PhD, is certain that the emissions can't cause blindness. The scientists have studied what happens when the blue light falls onto the retina. However, the professor from Columbia University had objections, as the experiment was carried out using the cells that were not taken from an eye and simply combined with the retina. As something like this couldn't happen naturally, the project was considered controversial.
Meanwhile, blue light waves is said to be actually quite useful, especially at daytime. And besides, blue light bulbs are used for treatment; however, the wavelength is completely different, which allows to use them without any damage to health.
How to protect yourself
- First of all, you should limit the amount of time spent with gadgets if possible.
- Try not to watch films or read the news 2-3 hours before sleep.
- When working at night, use special glasses that block the blue light's effect.
- In order to get enough sleep, use pale red light for your nightlight.
- Put a filter against blue light on your smartphone.
- Try not to use gadgets in the dark.
- Bring variety into your diet by adding foods high in antioxidants and fatty acids.
We hope our advice will help you to protect yourself against the blue light's effect and will keep you healthy.
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This article is solely for informational purposes. Do not self-diagnose or self-medicate, and in all cases consult a certified healthcare professional before using any information presented in the article. The editorial board does not guarantee any results and does not bear any responsibility for any harm that may result from using the information provided in the article.