Blue Light’s Role in Regulating Circadian Rhythm

In modern society, most of the time we live in a controlled environment under artificial lights, which are 1,000 to 10,000 times dimmer than sunlight and the wrong part of the spectrum. This could contribute to the further aging of the eye.

On top of that, researchers found that the blue part of the light spectrum is filtered by the eye’s aging lens. The amount of blue light allowed in steadily decreases, reaching a meager 17 percent 75 years of age.

The researchers say they believe that cataract surgery will be proven to result in higher levels of melatonin production, which could lower the person’s chance of developing health problems like cancer or heart disease. As you age, the experts of this study say you should make an effort to expose yourself to bright sunlight or bright indoor lighting. Older adults are at particular risk, because they spend more time indoors.