Blue LIght from Electronics

According to Anne-Marie Chang, PhD, associate neuroscientist in BWH’s Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, blue light (short-wavelength enriched light) interrupts the body’s natural circadian rhythms were interrupted by the short-wavelength enriched light, otherwise known as blue light, from these electronic devices. It suppresses the production of melatonin and apparently can reduce the time spent in REM sleep. There is some evidence that links chronic suppression of melatonin secretion by nocturnal light exposure with the increased risk of breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer. Suggestions include using glasses that block blue light and turning off all digital media equipment and E-readers for 30-60 minutes before going to bed.