Our lives are filled with streams of blue light, a component of the light spectrum notably emitted by our screens, LED lights, and even the sun. While it’s frequently vilified due to its potential adverse effects on sleep and eye health, blue light can serve as a beneficial aid to our health when consumed in appropriate doses. Start a search today to find blue light remedies for a variety of health concerns, from high blood pressure to cognitive function.
Shutterstock: Image Point Fr1. The Daytime Energy Boost
Blue light plays an essential role in regulating our circadian rhythm, our body’s natural sleep and wake cycle. During the day, blue light exposure can increase alertness and cognitive function. It signals to our brain that it’s time to wake up and start the day, leading to improved mood and performance.
Therefore, working or studying in a well-lit, blue-light-rich environment can help you remain focused and productive. Blue light also aids in physiological alertness by suppressing melatonin, the hormone responsible for inducing sleep. This action, in turn, helps combat daytime sleepiness, ensuring our body stays in tune with the natural day-night cycle.
2. Boosting Memory and Cognitive Function
Scientific research suggests that blue light might play a role in enhancing memory and cognitive functions. 1 Exposure to blue light stimulates the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein vital for brain health.
BDNF supports the survival of existing neurons and encourages the formation and growth of new neurons and synapses. Thus, a moderate exposure to blue light could potentially aid in maintaining or even improving cognitive functions.
3. Blue Light as a Mood Enhancer
Blue light has been shown to play a part in mood regulation. By influencing our circadian rhythms, it affects serotonin production – a key hormone responsible for mood and happiness. Optimal exposure to blue light can lead to an increase in positive mood states and contribute to overall emotional well-being.
Blue light not only helps in promoting happiness but also reducing symptoms of anxiety. As light influences serotonin production, it also indirectly affects other neurotransmitters like dopamine, which plays a role in feelings of pleasure and reward, thereby creating an overall sense of calm and satisfaction.
4. Treatment of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons. Researchers have found that blue light therapy, exposing individuals to specific amounts of blue light, can help treat symptoms of SAD. 2
Blue light therapy works by resetting the circadian rhythm, improving mood, and increasing energy levels in individuals experiencing SAD. Additionally, blue light therapy can effectively treat other forms of depression and sleep disorders.
5. Blue Light for Blood Pressure Regulation
Recent studies show that blue light can help regulate blood pressure levels. A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that exposure to blue light significantly reduced blood pressure in participants, comparable to the results obtained from blood pressure-lowering medications. 3
By promoting the dilation of blood vessels, blue light improves blood circulation. This could reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, two conditions often associated with high blood pressure.
6. Promoting Growth and Healing
Research is still in the early stages, but blue light has shown potential in promoting growth and healing. 4 It’s been found to help heal wounds, treat skin conditions, and even stimulate hair growth by reducing inflammation and increasing blood flow.
In dermatology, it’s used to treat skin disorders like psoriasis and vitiligo. The anti-inflammatory properties of blue light also have the potential to manage conditions like arthritis.
Boost the Amount of Blue Light in Your Life
A plethora of blue light machines have been designed to manage health conditions or enhance one’s appearance. These include:
- Light therapy boxes have been shown to alleviate symptoms of SAD 5
- Blue light skin therapy devices help treat certain skin conditions, such as acne, by targeting bacteria under the skin’s surface 6
- Blue light eye therapy machines are used to treat certain eye conditions, like neonatal jaundice, through a process known as phototherapy
- Some advanced toothbrushes employ blue light technology to eliminate harmful bacteria in the mouth and enhance whitening treatments
Each of these blue light devices showcases the versatility and broad potential of blue light in promoting health and well-being.
A Useful Natural Resource
While blue light’s potential negative effects on sleep and eye health should not be overlooked, it’s not all doom and gloom. When we expose ourselves to it in moderation, blue light can offer a range of surprising health benefits.
As scientists explore this balance further, you can likewise research how to incorporate controlled blue light exposure into your life. From boosting your cognitive function and regulating your mood, to managing your blood pressure, blue light has a lot to offer!
