Optometrist warns we’re absorbing more than 10 times too much blue light from digital device screens

Optometrist and blue light expert Dhruvin Patel believes that due to our screen-heavy lifestyles, the average Brit is absorbing more than 10 times too much blue light from their digital devices, with most spending between 10-14 hours a day in front of one.

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Using a smartphone or computer is an essential part of the day for many, but most of us aren’t aware of the harm that excessive screen use can cause to our eyes, sleeping patterns, and even wider health.

All digital devices emit high levels of blue light, a high-energy light that stimulates the brain and eyes, suppressing the production of melatonin, a hormone we produce to naturally regulate our sleep cycles. Blue light suppresses melatonin production twice as much as other types of light.

Computer and smartphone use has increased exponentially over the last three decades, meaning we’re now absorbing far more blue light than previous generations.

Ocushield founder and Optometrist Dhruvin Patel comments: “Light stimulates our eyes, and naturally our brain too, which can prevent us from getting to sleep. Blue light is the worst offender in the light spectrum and is emitted by any device with a screen. Technology has had a hugely positive impact on our lives in recent years – but increased screen use also means we’re absorbing far too much blue light – which has been shown to have a detrimental effect on sleeping patterns.

Too much time staring at screens can also contribute towards eye strain, fatigue, headaches, dry eyes and blurry vision. When your eyes are healthy, you sleep better, you feel better and you get more done. By taking care of your eyes you take care of so much more.

Research bodies and manufacturers are currently not solving the problem adequately. This is the real problem. We want to be able to lead the conversation in this space to encourage more research and increase collaboration between academics and businesses, to protect the future wellbeing of ourselves and our families.”

Ryan Chambers, Sports Scientist for the Welsh Rugby Union comments:

“Players spend excessive time on their smartphones during down time on training days. We found this peaked around bedtime. Research explains that blue light emitted could be affecting sleep latency and quality, so it was important that we address this with players.

Giving players an Ocushield helped increase player awareness and education as to why being on their phones could have detrimental effects on their sleep and recovery, and Ocushield also provides a solution so that players can spend time on their smartphones without it impairing sleep quality and latency.

Players have subjectively found that they sleep better and get off to sleep quicker. They’re also aware that spending time on their phones will have an impact on their sleep, and Ocushield has helped control the impact that blue light emission could potentially have on their performance. “

Ocushield screen protectors are available via the Ocushield online store and a number of opticians in the UK and Ireland. For more information visit  www.ocushield.com.

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