In this era of advanced technology, people unconsciously spend a lot of their time in being exposed to artificial light from their computers, tablets or mobile phones and TVs. Is it really just an ordinary day to day routine or does it have an underlying effect on our health condition?
According to a report released by Daily Mail, exposure to bright artificial light creates a risk for our health as it can alter the rhythmic patterns of our body clock. The light emitted from such devices is known to decrease our body's ability to produce the melatonin hormone which triggers the feeling of sleepiness.
Previous research suggested that prolonged exposure to artificial light is most likely seen to increase the risk of developing obesity, diabetes, heart problem and depression. The most common type of artificial light and probably the worst is the one that we get from our smartphones and other electronic devices especially at night which is known as "blue light".
However, in one of his statements, George Brainard, a professor at Jefferson Medical College in the U.S. and leading researcher on light's effect on the body says that it's not all about the disadvantages. Artificial light also has its own health benefits, such as increasing the testosterone levels, according to an Italian study published last month.
A previous study also suggested that the use of light therapy or light boxes for patients having Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can help treat those who have depression all year round. Brainard has added that the key is to consider factors such as how the lighting is being used, the purpose of using it and when it is used.
As per Green Facts, it has been found that visible and IR radiations obtained from the exposure to artificial lights does not necessarily mean negative health effects unless they are extremely intense and used at close range.
