Join the Dark Side

Zee advises her patients to sleep in greater darkness, if possible, but no need for a pitch-black bedroom (moonlight is fine!).

- Lindsay Geller

You already know exposure to blue light from a screen is detrimental to dozing. Actually, any kind of moderate ambient light (i.e., enough to see by but not to read with) may impair cardiovascular regulation at night and increase insulin resistance the next morning compared with dimmer light, per a Northwestern University medical school study. Ideas for better Zs:

Mask Better Tend to fall asleep with the TV on? That’s one source of moderate ambient light that inhibits glucose regulation (a risk factor for heart disease, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome), says study coauthor Phyllis Zee, MD. Hallway light is another common type that may be unavoidable for apartment dwellers. Zee’s simple fix: a well-fitted eye mask or blackout curtains.

Choose Bulbs Wisely Zee advises her patients to sleep in greater darkness, if possible, but no need for a pitch-black bedroom (moonlight is fine!). For older adults and children, who may need a night-light for safety reasons, choose an amber-colored one and place it on or near the floor. They’ll still be able to see, but the light likely won’t reach their eyes mid-slumber, says Zee.