1. Processed Light

Written By John Erickson

Most gyms are illuminated by LED lights, fluorescent bulbs, and flat-screen TVs, all of which emit harmful blue light. This blue light will increase blood sugar and insulin resistance, counteracting the positive benefits of exercising. To help protect your eyes and skin from the impact of artificial light while indoors, consider wearing blue-blocking glasses, full-length pants, and long-sleeve shirts.

 

NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF BLUE LIGHT

  • Artificial blue light contributes to the breakdown of the retina, which in turn can lead to deterioration in both the retina and the brain (References 1; 655).

  • Exposure to artificial blue light accelerates biological aging processes (Reference 656).

  • Artificial blue light causes hypoxia (decreased oxygen) (References 20; 112).

  • Blue light can reduce melanin levels in the brain, potentially impacting its protective functions (Reference 3).

  • Excessive exposure to artificial light—particularly at night—can disrupt melatonin and cortisol levels, increasing the risk of depression, obesity, and other health issues (Reference 657).

  • Artificial light can interfere with the brain’s internal clock, potentially impacting emotional regulation and mood (Reference 657).

  • A 2025 study published in the journal Clinical Epigenetics found that exposure to artificial light at night (ALAN) was associated with increased LDL cholesterol levels (Reference 658).

  • According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), artificial blue light, particularly when experienced at night, is associated with metabolic disruptions, including increased triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol, alongside potential reductions in protective HDL. Chronic exposure acts as a metabolic stressor, contributing to gut dysbiosis and dysregulation of fat‑related gene expression, thereby increasing the risk of metabolic disease and obesity (Reference #3005).

  • Artificial blue light can alter mitochondrial function, resulting in a slowdown of electron transport within the mitochondria (Reference 44).

  • Children who frequently use screens emitting blue light are at increased risk for mental health and sleep problems. Extensive scientific research supports these findings (Reference 38).

  • Artificial blue light at night disrupts melanopsin. Melanopsin is a light‑sensitive protein in intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) that plays a crucial role in regulating circadian rhythms, promoting alertness, supporting mood, and controlling pupil size (reference 26).

  • Artificial blue light generates singlet oxygen, a highly reactive form of oxygen. (Reference 1, reference 2)

 

SINGLET OXYGEN

Singlet oxygen is a highly unstable, energized form of oxygen that acts as a powerful oxidizing agent. When artificial blue light interacts with light-sensitive molecules in the body, it can generate singlet oxygen and other reactive oxygen species (ROS). These highly reactive molecules can trigger oxidative stress, damaging cellular structures and impairing normal biological function.

1. Cellular and DNA Damage:
Singlet oxygen readily reacts with lipids, proteins, and DNA, stripping away electrons and causing a form of oxidative injury known as photooxidative stress. This damage can disrupt cellular function, accelerate aging processes, and, in severe cases, lead to cell death. (Reference 1, Reference 2)

2. Retinal Degeneration:
In the eye, blue light can interact with age-related pigments such as lipofuscin that accumulate in retinal cells. This interaction generates singlet oxygen and other ROS, promoting oxidative damage to the retina. Over time, this photochemical stress has been associated with retinal cell apoptosis and may contribute to the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). (Reference 1)

3. Skin Aging and Hyperpigmentation:
High-energy blue light can penetrate deeply into the skin, where it promotes oxidative stress and the formation of free radicals. This process may accelerate collagen degradation, contribute to premature skin aging, and stimulate persistent hyperpigmentation that can be more difficult to fade than conventional UV-induced tanning. (Reference 1, Reference 2)

 

More Information:

Artificial Light: Light graphs showing the blue light spike from artificial lighting.

John Erickson
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2. Processed Foods