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STOP TAKING THE TABLETS

Forget junk food — the light from phones and tablets is just as harmful to our health

Experts fear blue light from electronic devices is fuelling an epidemic of sleep-deprivation that could lead to killer conditions such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes, as well as anxiety and depression

LIGHT pollution from phones and tablets could be as harmful as junk food, England’s top doctor warned yesterday.

Experts fear blue light from the devices is fuelling an epidemic of sleep-deprivation.

Blue light from your phone or tablet increases the risk of serious medical conditions, including obesity, heart disease and diabetes, as well as anxiety and depression
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Blue light from your phone or tablet increases the risk of serious medical conditions, including obesity, heart disease and diabetes, as well as anxiety and depression

Chief Medical Officer Dame Sally Davies said: “People should try to make sure their mobile phones are turned off before bed. Kids as well.”

More than three-quarters of Brits are exposed to blue light before going to bed. Research has ­suggested it prevents production of the hormone melatonin — an important factor in getting off to sleep.

And the NHS warns regular poor sleep increases the risk of serious medical conditions, including obesity, heart disease and diabetes, as well as anxiety and depression.

Prof Davies, who has a reputation for nannying advice, warned that blue light and noise added to a “daily cocktail of pollutants”.

How blue light from devices can harm your health
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How blue light from devices can harm your health

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She said: “I think pollution is a bit like junk food. It doesn’t kill you on the day, but it slowly can accumulate and do you harm.”

She urged families with kids to install air pollution monitors because of emissions from household products.

Chief Medical Officer and Dame Sally Davies is often accused of 'nannying' advice on the health of Brits
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Chief Medical Officer and Dame Sally Davies is often accused of 'nannying' advice on the health of BritsCredit: PA:Press Association

NANNIED BY DAME SALLY

THE nannying warnings of Dame Sally Davies have made headlines before. Her previous advice includes:

  • Women should think of breast cancer every time they have a glass of wine.
  • Obesity is as big a threat as terrorism, with our bulging waistlines a “national risk” to health and the NHS.
  • Brits should avoid retirement and keep working into their 70s in a bid to stay fit.
  • Even one pint a week raises the risk of cancer.
  • Bosses should offer flexible working and provide cooler workplaces for women going through the menopause.
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