• Are blue blockers helpful?

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    Blue light blocking glasses, often referred to as "blue blockers," can be helpful in certain contexts, according to .

    • During the Day: It's suggested that wearing blue blockers throughout the day may not be the best idea because doing so can disrupt the body's circadian rhythm. Blue light, especially in the morning and throughout the day, is beneficial for setting circadian rhythms properly, improving mood, metabolism, and other bodily functions. recommends exposure to bright light, including blue light from natural sources like sunlight, during these times rather than using blue blockers 1.

    • At Night: The use of blue light blocking glasses is supported during the evening and nighttime hours. This is because bright light exposure, including blue light, late at night can disrupt sleep by interfering with melatonin production and can also trigger pathways in the brain associated with depression 2. Limiting the exposure to bright lights of any kind before bedtime is recommended, including dimming the lights and positioning them lower in your visual field 3.

    • UV Protection: It is important to distinguish between blue light and ultraviolet (UV) light. While blue light exposure is good during the day, UV light is known to have adverse effects on both skin and eyes, and blocking UV light can be beneficial. In this context, glasses that filter UV rays are commonly suggested 4.

    In summary, the appropriate use of blue blockers aligns with the time of day: avoid using them during daylight hours to benefit from natural blue light exposure and consider using them in the evening to prevent disruption to sleep patterns. Always keep in mind the distinction between blue light for healthy circadian rhythms and UV protection for safeguarding eye health.

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