by btrupp
23. September 2011 09:17
As our daily lives are more and more intertwined with devices that constantly connect us to the world, new studies are revealing that we should be more careful about when to use this technology, because it could be costing us valuable sleep time.
The National Sleep Foundation found that 95 percent of Americans use some kind of technology one hour before going to sleep, including 61 percent who use a laptop or computer. These devices emit a blue light from their screens that interfere with the body secreting melatonin, the “hormone of darkness” that allows you to get drowsy and fall asleep. Blue light is also emitted from televisions, cellphones and certain alarm clocks – items typically found in bedrooms. Reading exciting books, watching distressing TV, or playing computer games also interfere with sleep by keeping the mind very active and making it difficult to relax.
These effects from technology may be more commonly found in members of Generation Z and Generation Y (essentially everyone born in 1976 or later). Research has shown these people are most likely to engage in using computers or playing video games in the hour before bedtime.
In a country where 1 in 4 adults do not get adequate sleep (defined as 7-8 hours per night), we should all be more aware of the risks associated with chronic sleep deprivation, such as developing high blood pressure, gaining weight, or experiencing a stroke. Turn off the technology for better rest and better health!