Thu. Oct 10th, 2024

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.

They have it all covered! We tried the cover for iphone and glasses. Your eyes immediately feel more comfortable, great for students.  Ocushield: for your smartphone; iPad; monitor; Macbook or even face (glasses).

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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By Penny McCarthy

Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.

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