Exposure to Electric Light Prior to Bed Time Could Increase Risk of Diabetes

Mon, 17 Jan 2011
People who are exposed to high levels of electric light between dusk and going to bed could be more likely to test positively in the HbA1c test for diabetes .

This is a finding from a new study from Brigham and Women’s Hospital researchers.

The researchers discovered that light exposure during this period of the day represses melatonin levels. This hormone is related to various metabolic functions, such as, body temperature regulation, blood pressure, feeling tired, and, most importantly, blood sugar regulation.

For the purposed of the study, researchers took several measurements from 116 individuals over a period of five nights. Those individuals who were exposed to electric light for the eight hours prior to bedtime had considerably lower melatonin levels and increased risk factors for metabolic complications, such as, diabetes .

The researchers stated that nowadays lots of us are exposed to high levels of electric light as a result of our jobs and lifestyles .

These findings carry great implications for such individuals.

Link to this page

Copy and Paste the following HTML into your page.