We live in a modern world where people rely a lot on technology. Thanks to electricity, we could stay up as late as we want and make the nighttime as day, for as long as we want to. We have plenty of different types of gadgets and electronics to keep us happy and to help us have an easier life – yet it seems that these are taking a toll on our bodies.

Did you know that regular use of computer and phone before sleeping is killing you?

That’s kind of scary considering most, if not all, of us are using either computers or phones [sometimes even both!] and other forms of electronics before bedtime!

Now, we are not supposed to be pushing daylight to nighttime – or so our body has been wired. As much as we need the sun, we also need darkness! Under the cover of darkness, our bodies produce melatonin which helps control our body’s circadian rhythm which controls sleep and wake cycles.

Because artificial light tricks the body into thinking it is still day time, melatonin production is suppressed. These artificial light sources do not just mean the lamps and lights in our homes but also light from electronic gadgets such computers, tablets, and cellphones!

Studies have shown that people with low melatonin are more prone to cancer and various ailments because this vital hormone actually helps protect our cells from damage.

Aside from cancer, melatonin suppression also leads to heart disease, metabolic syndrome, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and impaired immune systems.

How to Prevent Melatonin Suppression

We all need plenty of melatonin to help our body’s immune system. Here’s what you can do to prevent melatonin suppression.

Avoid using electronics [computers, tablets, and cellphones] and bright screens at least two hours before bedtime.

Turn off the lights. If you can’t sleep without some luminance, use red night light because studies have shown red light is the least disruptive of melatonin production and the circadian rhythm.

During day time, make sure to get plenty of natural bright light from the sun to help adjust the circadian rhythm accordingly.