The Avoidable Light That Might Shortening Your Life

This one was clearly off my radar.

But this hidden risk is somewhat easy to remedy, either by black out curtains and placing chargers in other rooms, or getting a well fitting and comfortable eye mask. I watched a short clip of an young actress, I wish I could remember who it was so I could give credity, and of her favorite things was a ight shielding eye mask with cups for the eyes. She said she loves it because she sleeps better, but also it’s now somewhat pavlovian in that whenever she puts in on, say on set in the middle of the day, she can sleep. https://youtu.be/exbsJOP4hUk

For years to the amusement of my kids, I pull my hair over my eyes when I nap or at night. My version of an eyemask, but I think more is required at this point! Important health hack!!

So you can read on for the main hazards of nighttime light, but for most people, this is an avoidable danger!

I just bought an eyemask with cups so I’ll let you know what I think!!

why scientist link more diseases to light at night

Here’s a summary based on the document “Why Scientists Are Linking More Diseases to Light at Night”:

– **Disruption of Circadian Rhythm**: Exposure to light at night disrupts the body’s natural circadian rhythm, which regulates sleep-wake cycles. This can lead to various health issues.

– **Impact on Melatonin Production**: Light at night, particularly blue light, suppresses melatonin production. Melatonin is a hormone crucial for regulating sleep and is believed to have antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage.

– **Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases**: Studies link nighttime light exposure to a higher risk of developing several chronic conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes. This connection is likely due to circadian disruption.

– **Mental Health Implications**: Light at night has also been associated with mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Disruptions in sleep patterns can affect emotional regulation and mental well-being.

– **Connection to Alzheimer’s Disease**: Research suggests that melatonin suppression may increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Disrupted circadian rhythms can exacerbate cognitive decline.

– **Shift Workers at Greater Risk**: People working night shifts or in environments with artificial light are particularly vulnerable to these risks. Their extended exposure to light at night makes it difficult to maintain healthy circadian rhythms.

– **Public Health Concerns**: Growing evidence points to light pollution as a significant public health issue, with scientists advocating for reduced exposure to artificial light at night to promote better health outcomes.

This summary highlights how light exposure at night is increasingly recognized as a contributor to various health risks.