Copyright timesnownews
When you switch off the lights at night, you’re not just setting the mood for better sleep, you might also be doing your heart a favor. Recent research suggests that exposure to even dim light during sleep could increase the risk of cardiovascular problems such as hypertension, obesity, and diabetes, all of which are major contributors to heart disease. The human body runs on a finely tuned circadian rhythm, a natural 24-hour cycle that regulates sleep, metabolism, and hormone balance. Artificial light at night, whether from a bedside lamp, streetlight, or the glow of your phone screen, disrupts this rhythm. When light seeps through your eyelids, it signals your brain that it’s still daytime, suppressing melatonin, the sleep hormone that also helps regulate blood pressure and blood sugar. Studies show that people exposed to light during sleep tend to have higher nighttime heart rates and blood sugar levels compared to those who sleep in complete darkness. Over time, this constant state of alertness, even if mild, keeps the nervous system from entering full rest mode, preventing the heart and blood vessels from relaxing and recovering overnight. Moreover, research has found that even low levels of light exposure (such as a dim nightlight) can impair glucose regulation and increase insulin resistance. These changes, although subtle at first, can add up over months and years, leading to metabolic disturbances that strain the cardiovascular system. Experts recommend keeping your sleeping environment as dark as possible. Use blackout curtains to block outside light, turn off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bed, and avoid charging your phone near your pillow. If you need light for safety or comfort, opt for a dim red or amber nightlight, these have minimal impact on melatonin production. Sleeping in darkness is not just about better rest, it’s about giving your body the quiet it needs to repair, regulate, and reset. The heart, after all, beats tirelessly throughout the day; letting it rest in true darkness might be one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to protect it.
