How a Bright Bedroom Can Increase the Risk of Heart Attack
Quelle: VIDEOELEPHANT (Glomex)
A British study with 88,905 participants found that those with the brightest bedrooms had a 42% higher risk of heart attack over a period of nearly 10 years. Even ambient light in the bedroom, such as from alarm clocks, televisions, or hallway lighting, can damage the heart. The risk of heart failure, coronary heart disease, irregular heartbeat, and stroke was also increased. Participants wore wrist sensors that recorded light exposure for a week. The researchers then tracked their health for 9.5 years. Light at night disrupts the circadian rhythm, keeping blood pressure elevated and altering hormone secretion, which can contribute to arterial calcification and heart disease over time. Women and younger adults were more sensitive to nighttime light, while genetic risk factors for heart disease did not alter the relationship. Bright daylight, on the other hand, appeared to be protective, likely because these people were more active. Experts recommend simple measures such as blackout curtains, dim red light, and turning off devices to reduce exposure. Darkness at night, like exercise and diet, is important for long-term cardiovascular health.