Excessive night light exposure, lack of daylight may shorten lifespan
A recent study by an international team of researchers indicates that too much light exposure at night and too little daylight during the day, may actually increase your risk of dying prematurely. The research highlights the importance of sleep health and following our circadian rhythms. Modern lifestyle habits like night shifts or staying indoors during the day often disturb this natural light-dark balance.
Study links disrupted circadian rhythms to health risks
The study's senior author Sean Cain, from Flinders University in Australia, warned, "Exposure to brighter nights and darker days can disrupt our circadian rhythms, a disruption that is known to lead to various health issues including diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, mental health issues and increase the risk of death." "These new insights into the potential adverse impact of light have shown us just how important personal light exposure patterns are for your health," he added.
Study reveals impact of light exposure on mortality
The research team examined data from a UK research database, concentrating on 88,905 people who had worn light sensor trackers for a week. Their health was subsequently monitored for about eight years. The results indicated that high levels of night light exposure correlated with a 21-34% increased risk of death. On the other hand, high levels of daylight exposure during the day correlated with a 17-34% lower risk of death.
Light cycles and mortality rate: A potential connection
While the study doesn't establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship (due to other potential contributing factors), it does suggest a strong association between light cycles and health and mortality rate. Lead author and sleep scientist Daniel Windred, from Flinders University, highlights the importance of protecting lighting environments especially in those at risk for both circadian disruption and mortality, like in intensive care or aged-care settings.
Avoiding night light and seeking daylight may promote optimal health
Further computer modeling revealed that the strength and rhythm of the participants' circadian rhythms, likely influenced by light exposure patterns, were also related to mortality rate. This supports the idea that it is the disruption to the body's natural flow that increases risk of serious diseases, and from there an earlier death. Sleep scientist Andrew Phillips from Flinders University suggests a simple solution, "Our findings clearly show that avoiding night light and seeking daylight may promote optimal health and longevity."
