Science analyzed this common behavior that many drag from children to adults.
A study by the Spanish Sleep Society analyzed the Effects of sleeping with light on. Recent research showed that this common practice, although often overlooked, generates significant impacts on sleep quality and in general health.
The specialists determined that this habit, common at all ages, It alters circadian rhythms and affects sleep quality. The brain interprets artificial light as Vigil signalwhich interferes with the production of melatonin, essential hormone for a restful break.
The coordinator of the SES Chronobiology Group, María José Martínez Madrid, explained that the supraquiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus acts as “Orchestra Director” of the Dream-Vigilia cycles. When artificial light penetrates the environment, even through closed eyelids, this brain center receives wrong signals that reduce melatonin to half. As a consequence, the dream becomes more superficial, fragmented and with the greatest number of night awakenings.
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The scientific meaning of sleeping with light on
The experts identified five main causes that explain why many people maintain this habit. He darkness Heads the list, since the light provides a sense of security that reduces anxiety against the unknown. Some individuals resort to lighting to keep the mind busy and avoid intrusive thoughts that hinder the beginning of sleep.
In other cases, this behavior responds to Sleep disorders such as insomnia or apnea. Generalized anxiety can also manifest through the need to maintain some focus on during the night. Many They adopted this habit in childhood and kept it in adulthoodalthough they no longer feel the original need.
Ana Fernández Arcos, from the Spanish Society of Neurology, warned that Children and young people are particularly sensitive For the effects of artificial light. Its circadian systems still in development They require total darkness for optimal melatonin production. Even brief exhibitions in light during the night (such as when you get up to the bathroom) can completely eliminate this hormone from the bloodstream.
The consequences of sleeping with the light on, according to experts
Prolonged exposure to artificial light during sleep produces negative effects on physical and mental health. The studies linked this habit with a Greater risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, obesity and certain types of cancer. The Alteration of circadian rhythms He also associated with mental health problems and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer and Parkinson.
The Lack of repairing sleep derived from this habit affects cognitive functions. The people who sleep with light presented greater Difficulty maintaining concentrationwhich increases the risk of occupational accidents and traffic. The specialists recommended using low intensity flashlights instead of lighting strong lights during the night to minimize the impact on melatonin production.
For those who need to get up during the night, experts suggested to keep the room in complete darkness. Exposure to any luminous source, even for a few minutes, interrupts the natural cycle of sleep and hinders the return to deep rest. This recommendation acquires special importance in the case of children and adolescents, whose light sensitivity is greater than in adults.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
