Blue Light Therapy and Your Health

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    Having trouble sleeping? Wake up feeling sluggish? Blue light exposure could be the culprit to your tiredness.

    What is blue light? Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum, meaning we can see it. It has the shortest wavelength and highest energy and is known as high-energy visible (HEV). Sources of blue light include sunlight, laptops and computers, smartphones, tablets, and TV. Even though blue light is emitted from the sun and our technological devices, it is harmful from technology (LED lights) due to the proximity of the screens and the length of time and frequency we are looking at our screens. The other difference between natural blue light and artificial is the wavelength. Most light from LED lights has a wavelength between 400 and 490, which is known to be connected to retinal damage, dry eyes, eye strain, issues with cognitive performance and productivity, advanced aging, sleep and circadian rhythm disruption, as well as pediatric eye conditions.

    Natural blue light is essential for good health. Research shows it elevates mood, promotes alertness, supports memory and cognitive function and regulates circadian rhythm. For optimal health, it is imperative for your eyes to be exposed to sunlight upon waking, or as soon as possible after the sunrises. It is also important to avoid artificial blue light in the evenings, especially after the sun has set.

    The following are some tips from Harvard Health Publishing on how to avoid artificial blue light in the evenings:

    • Use dim red lights for night lights. Red light is less likely to shift circadian rhythm and suppress melatonin.
    • Avoid looking at bright screens beginning two or three hours before bed.
    • If you work a night shift or use a lot of electrical devices at  night, consider wearing blue-blocking glasses or installing an app that filters the blue/green wavelength at night.
    • Expose yourself to lots of bright light during the day, which will boost your ability to sleep at night, as well as your mood and alertness during daylight.

    The chiropractors at Moore Chiropractic also recommend getting adjusted to aid with sleep. When the nervous system is regulated through homeostasis via the chiropractic adjustment, patients report improved sleep and more alertness during the day. Call our office at 360-352-0211 to schedule your initial visit and ask your doctor about blue light exposure.