"Screen Time" Mistake HARMS Your Health

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted May 6, 2023

Dear Living Well Daily Reader,  

For many folks, reaching for their smartphone is the FIRST thing they do in the morning before starting the day.

And putting that phone back on its charger is the LAST thing they do at night before slipping under the covers.

Many of the hours in between are spent using all the modern electronic devices that we can’t live without – from laptops to smart TVs to virtual assistants.

In many ways, these machines enrich our lives. They help us stay in touch with loved ones, entertain us, and keep us informed.

Heck, you’re even reading THESE WORDS on one right now.

But the truth is, all those glowing screens have a dark side too. Researchers warn that the risk is growing. And if you’re a senior, you may be in even MORE peril.

Most of us have at least a few LED screens around our home. Another in your pocket. Maybe even one in your car.

There’s no question they’re useful. But those displays also emit a wavelength of damaging “blue light.”

It can have negative health consequences regardless of your age. But recent research revealed that seniors, in particular, may be in harm’s way.

The lab study, published just last year in the journal NPJ Aging, used fruit flies to test how blue light affects health and longevity.

And it soon became clear that the older flies suffered MORE damage than the younger ones.

When the researchers analyzed the data, they concluded that older HUMANS are likely more susceptible to the harmful effects of blue light as well.

And the damage is cumulative, meaning it builds as we age.

Naturally, blue light can harm the eyes. But experts say the light can cause damage from head to toe.

You see, blue light mucks with our sleep/wake cycle or circadian rhythm. And this creates a domino effect, damaging cells THROUGHOUT the body.

This research is still in its infancy. We have a LOT more to learn. But there’s already plenty of evidence that continuous exposure to blue light harms your health.

The good news is you CAN dial down your risks.

• Limit your exposure to screens. Try turning them off at dinnertime and keep them off for the rest of the night.
• Check to see if you can adjust your screens to put out less blue light. Many newer devices include this option.
• Wear special glasses designed to block the light.

Our electronic devices are here to stay. We can’t live without them anymore. But we CAN make our relationship with them a healthier one.

P.S. Check out my earlier report, “Could Your TV GIVE You Diabetes!?” for the disturbing details on another blue light risk.

Source:

“Age-dependent effects of blue light exposure on lifespan, neurodegeneration, and mitochondria physiology in Drosophila melanogaster.” NPJ Aging, 8, 11 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41514-022-00-00092-z

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

View More By Dr. Scott Olson, ND