Surprisingly Unhealthy Habits

The American Medical Association says that exposure to excessive light at night, including from extended use of electronics — computers, tablets and cellphones — can disrupt sleep and worsen sleep disorders. Any light can cause disruptions, but “blue” light emitted from the screens of smartphones, other electronics and energy-efficient light bulbs is especially problematic. Blue light is prominent in the daylight, so the body associates it with daytime. Exposure to blue light not only makes you more alert and responsive, but it is also known to significantly suppress melatonin secretion. Melatonin is a hormone found naturally in the body that helps regulate your sleep cycle. A Mayo Clinic study found that reducing the brightness setting of a smartphone or tablet and holding the device at least 14 inches from your eyes while using it may reduce its potential to interfere with melatonin secretion and disrupt sleep. Ideally, you would want to avoid looking at bright screens two to three hours before bed.