Do Your Eyes Have the Blues?

 Like most people, I have a routine I follow before I go to bed. I will typically make myself a healthy snack to eat while watching a show or a movie to watch, so my body can wind down. What I never knew is that there's a flaw in my routine affecting my sleep - blue light.

We are exposed to blue light every day. The most common form of which is sunlight. The blue wavelengths from the sun are actually beneficial during the day as they boost attention, reaction times, and mood. The sun isn't the only source of blue light, however. Every time you go on your phone or watch T.V., your eyes are soaking in those wavelengths.

Blue light is just one type of light on the visible light spectrum. The problem with nighttime blue light consumption is that it makes us less tired. Our bodies naturally release melatonin, which helps us fall asleep. Blue light affects our bodies' production of melatonin, causing our bodies to stay more alert.

How do we cut down on our blue light exposure? The quickest way is to eliminate your in-house sources in the evening before bed. Turn off all your electronics so that your body will produce melatonin and help you fall asleep. I know what many of you are thinking, "There is no way that I can go all evening without any television or using my phone." 

So how do we still use our devices but minimize the blue light? Luckily, there are two easy solutions. Blue light glasses are an excellent investment. These glasses filter out some of the potentially problematic blue light to protect your eyes. If sporting glasses isn't your thing, you can also try adjusting your screen settings. Most newer electronics have a setting to reduce blue light. You can easily turn on the setting at night, and this will help lower your exposure, allowing you to use your devices in the evening hours without significant strain on your eyes.

 Whether you're struggling with your sleep or simply want to protect your eyes, reducing blue light is an easy way to look out for your health. 

Source: Newsom, R. (June 24, 2021). How Blue Light Affects Sleep. Sleep Foundation. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/bedroom-environment/blue-light