Optometrist cautions against popular pre-sleep routine that could harm your eyesight
An optometrist has warned that a popular pre-sleep habit might not be as beneficial as once believed. Experts suggest that reading before bed, especially on digital devices or under low light, may not be as relaxing as it seems. Here are some key points highlighted by the optometrist:
- Reading in low light may not directly harm your eyes but can cause discomfort, especially for those who need reading glasses.
- Reading in dim light can lead to eye strain, headaches, and increased discomfort, particularly at night when the eyes are tired.
- Using hands-free Kindle devices and lazy reading glasses can exacerbate eye strain issues, as these glasses often lack corrective power.
When it comes to reading before bedtime, many people opt for digital devices like Amazon Kindles, tablets, or smartphones. The belief that blue light from screens disrupts sleep has been challenged by new research from the University of Basel in Switzerland:
“While blue light is important for regulating our internal sleep-wake cycle during the day, its impact on circadian rhythms may not be as significant as previously thought. Other factors like overall brightness of light, screen content, and duration of exposure may play a larger role in disrupting sleep and causing eye strain.”
The study suggests that minimizing light exposure before bedtime can improve sleep quality. Optometrist Malcolm advises that brain-stimulating activities, such as reading, can make it challenging to relax before bed. To achieve a good night’s rest, it is recommended to avoid exposing your eyes to light at least an hour before sleep.
Key Takeaways from the Optometrist:
- Decreasing light exposure before bed may enhance sleep quality.
- Static content like reading from a book is less stimulating and better for winding down.
- Avoid projecting light into your eyes at least an hour before bedtime to transition into a more restful state.
In conclusion, while reading under dim light is not inherently harmful to eye health, ensuring comfort and proper lighting is crucial in preventing strain. The focus should be on reducing blue light exposure, updating reading glasses, and refraining from reading at least an hour before sleep for optimal eye health.