Tulane Study Links 3-Lux Night Light Exposure to Higher Heart Disease Risk

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Sep 14

More than 3 lux of nighttime light—about moonlight brightness—was tied in a Tulane study to higher risks of heart failure, atrial fibrillation, heart attack, stroke and cardiovascular death.
Light entering the eyes suppresses melatonin and disrupts the circadian rhythm, sleep experts said, reducing sleep quality and potentially driving the cardiovascular link.
A 2022 Northwestern study found one night of 100-lux light during sleep disrupted glucose regulation, raised heart rate and reduced heart rate variability, adding evidence that overnight light can strain the body.
Shift workers, children, older adults and people with insomnia or mood disorders may be especially vulnerable; experts said blue light from phones and TVs is most disruptive, while dim red-toned light is less harmful.
Experts recommended dimming overhead lights 1-2 hours before bed, stopping screen use at least an hour before sleep, and using blackout curtains, layered window coverings or a sleep mask.