NordenBladet – Having a TV or computer in the bedroom can be a convenient way to unwind before going to sleep or to catch up on work in the evenings. However, scientific studies have proven repeatedly that having electronic devices in the bedroom can have negative effects on health.
One of the main concerns is the impact on sleep. The blue light* emitted by electronic devices can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. This can make it more difficult to fall asleep and can lead to insomnia or other sleep disorders. Additionally, the noise and stimulation from the TV or computer can make it harder to relax and wind down before bed.
Another concern is the effect on mental health. Studies have shown that prolonged use of electronic devices can lead to increased stress and anxiety, as well as depression. Furthermore, the constant stimulation from the devices can make it difficult to focus and can negatively impact cognitive function.
For the sake of your health and good sleep, try to follow these tips:
* Avoid using electronic devices for at least an hour before bedtime.
* Use a blue light filter on your devices or install an app that adjusts the color temperature of the screen.
* Keep your bedroom as dark as possible to promote melatonin production.
* Keep your bedroom a technology-free zone.
Having a TV or computer in the bedroom can be convenient, but can have negative effects on health. The blue light emitted by electronic devices suppress melatonin production and make it more difficult to fall asleep. Additionally, prolonged use of electronic devices can lead to increased stress and anxiety, as well as depression. To promote healthy sleep and mental well-being, it is best to avoid using electronic devices in the bedroom and to create a technology-free zone in the bedroom.
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* What is Blue Light?
Blue light, also know as high-energy visible (HEV) light, is a color in the visible light spectrum that can be seen by human eyes. These wavelengths of visible and non-visible light are measured in nanometers (nm), and, in general, the shorter the wavelength, the higher the energy. Blue light is a short wavelength, which means it produces higher amounts of energy.
Unlike other forms of light, the eyes cannot effectively filter blue light, so more can pass through the eye to the retina. Blue light produces both benefits and concerns for our eyes and overall health.
The largest source of blue light is sunlight, but is also emitted by laptops and computer monitors, smartphones, tablets, TV, fluorescent and CFL bulbs.
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