Light and the body's cycles
Dr Kadam Nagpal, consultant neurologist at Salubritus Medcentre (New Delhi, India) – said that light plays an important role in regulating each person's biological clock (the body's 24-hour cycle). Whenever light enters the eye, it affects special cells in the retina and transmits it to the brain.
When a person is exposed to natural light, their circadian rhythm synchronizes with the time of day, recognizing times like sunset and sunrise. However, this circadian rhythm can be affected by artificial light sources.
“Exposure to artificial light at the wrong time, such as from phones or televisions at night, can affect sleep and wake cycles, disrupting the normal circadian rhythm,” notes Dr. Kadam Nagpal.
Light and hormone production
Exposure to light significantly affects the production of melatonin, a hormone important for regulating sleep.
Light at night, especially blue light from phone, computer, and television screens, can suppress the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for making you feel sleepy. When melatonin levels are not sufficient, you will have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.
Blue light is the most potent melatonin suppressor, so Dr. Kadam Nagpal recommends minimizing electronic device use at least 1 hour before bedtime.
In addition, to have a good night's sleep, you should not drink tea or coffee before going to bed. In particular, you should sleep in a quiet environment, there should not be any loud sounds and the surrounding area needs to be dark.
Dr. Nagpal concludes that light has a huge impact on sleep quality and adjusting it properly will help you improve your sleep and overall health.
