We all know someone who has a hard time falling asleep without the TV on or spends at least an hour on their phone before bed.

Studies now find, that the less light and noise pollution the better! 

 A new study from Northwestern University finds that sleeping with the light on increases your risk of developing diabetes. Quality of sleep can have a major impact on health, from emotional to physical.

The researchers had a group of volunteers spend a few nights sleeping in total darkness and a few nights sleeping with bright lights overhead. They then measured multiple vitals such as brain wave activity and any physical movement. Also taking blood samples to measure melatonin and a glucose tolerance test in the morning. 

Results showed that even one night of sleep with the lights on had an effect on insulin resistance. Although this was a short study, they are going to look deeper into long-term effects light exposure can have on metabolic functions. 

Let’s spread the word about the importance of turning off the lights to improve sleep and the health of our communities! 

To learn more check out this article: “Light-on sleeping may increase risk of diabetes” by Xinuhuanet 

Written by: Anne Carter