Watch Out for Blue Light

Did you know that blue light is one of the top growing concerns of eye doctors today? Studies suggest that, over time, exposure to the blue light, both natural from the sun and artificial from digital device screens, could cause retinal damage and blindness. This is more prevalent in children as their eyes absorb more blue light than adults from digital device screens.

Sources of Blue Light

Sun

Fluorescent light

LED light

Incandescent light bulbs

CFL (compact fluorescent light) bulbs

Flat screen LED televisions

Computer monitors, smart phones, tablet screens, electronic devices, etc

Effects of Excessive Exposure to Blue Light

Digital eye strain includes symptoms of sore and irritated eyes, blurry vision, headache, neck, back and shoulder pain.

Retina damage and age-related macular degeneration that can lead to loss of vision.

Harvard researchers have linked exposure to blue light at night to several types of cancer (breast and prostate), diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and in increased risk for depression.

Protect Your Eyes from the Inside Out

Limit screen time

Decrease the amount of time spent in front of screensand/or take frequent breaks to give your eyes a rest.

Include screen filters

Install screen filters for smart phones, tablets and computer screens to prevent excessive blue light to reach the eyes.

Supplement with carotenoids and B-Complex

Carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin, and vitamin B6 contain high amount of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce oxidative stress on the retina and filters out image-degrading visible blue light for sharper vision