The Problems with Modern LED Lighting with Matt Maruca
Nov 29, 2024
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Matt Maruca, founder of Ra Optics and creator of the Light Diet, dives into the impacts of artificial lighting on health. He discusses the negative effects of blue light from LEDs and shares tips for optimizing light exposure, especially while traveling. Maruca advocates for eating larger meals during the day and emphasizes why indoor lighting should be at eye level or lower at night. He also explores the benefits of light therapy for wellness and how technology influences our health in the modern world.
High-quality blue light blocking glasses are essential for enhancing eye health by filtering harmful wavelengths that disrupt circadian rhythms.
A light diet emphasizes aligning food intake with natural light cycles, promoting optimal health through strategic meal timing and exposure to sunlight.
Travel can impact circadian rhythms, but managing meal timing and utilizing effective light exposure strategies can mitigate jet lag effects.
The effectiveness of so-called 'healthy' circadian light bulbs is often overstated, necessitating a critical evaluation of their actual performance and flicker rates.
Deep dives
The Role of Blue Light Blockers
Blue light blocking glasses can play a crucial role in managing exposure to artificial light, especially at night. Cheap blue blockers often fall short in effectiveness and quality, which can lead to misinformed choices. High-quality blue light blocking glasses can help to filter harmful wavelengths that disrupt circadian rhythms and melatonin production. Investing in proper eyewear, such as those developed by Raw Optics, can provide significant benefits for eye health and overall well-being.
Implementing a Light Diet
A light diet involves adjusting exposure to natural light and managing artificial lighting in daily life for optimal health. This includes practices like getting sunlight during the day, minimizing exposure to artificial light, and eating meals in alignment with the sun's cycles. The speaker emphasizes the importance of meal timing, suggesting that lunch should be the main meal of the day when the sun is strongest. By following these principles, individuals can bolster their circadian rhythms and improve their overall energy levels.
Traveling and Maintaining Sleep Quality
Travel can disrupt circadian rhythms, but there are strategies to mitigate its effects. The speaker shares personal insights from traveling extensively, including the importance of managing meal timing, avoiding food during flights, and using light exposure effectively upon arrival. Engaging in physical activity like surfing or yoga can also contribute to better sleep quality. By prioritizing these practices, travelers can maintain their energy levels and circadian alignment, reducing the impact of jet lag.
Skepticism About Healthy Lighting Solutions
There is a considerable skepticism towards the effectiveness of supposedly 'healthy' circadian light bulbs on the market. Despite their marketing claims, many of these bulbs may still emit harmful flickers and wavelengths. The speaker discusses the importance of testing for flicker on devices like smartphones, which may not accurately represent the bulb's performance. A focus on high-quality lighting solutions and scrutinizing the science behind them is essential for creating a beneficial indoor lighting environment.
The Complexity of Light and Health
The relationship between light exposure and health is multifaceted, involving various wavelengths and their effects on human biology. While certain wavelengths of light can supply beneficial energy, others can be detrimental, particularly in excess. The conversation explores how different colors of light interact with our physiology, impacting mood and overall wellness. Understanding this complexity is essential for making informed choices about lighting, whether at home or outdoors.
Self-Exploration and Spiritual Practices
The importance of personal exploration and spiritual practices in attaining overall well-being is highlighted. The speaker shares how meditation, self-reflection, and a spiritual approach to life can lead to greater fulfillment and clarity. Engaging with teachings from figures like Dr. Joe Dispenza has significantly contributed to this journey of self-discovery and understanding. By nurturing the mind and spirit, individuals can achieve a balanced and holistic approach to health and happiness.
The Debate Over Dietary Choices
The discussion touches on the ongoing debate surrounding dietary choices, particularly the consumption of meat versus plant-based diets. While some individuals thrive on a carnivore diet, others advocate for vegetarianism or veganism based on ethical or health considerations. The complexity of individual needs is emphasized, as nutrition can vary greatly from person to person. Ultimately, the focus should be on what works well for each individual's body and lifestyle, allowing for greater flexibility in dietary preferences.
EMF Shielding Techniques
Managing exposure to electromagnetic frequencies (EMF) is another critical aspect of maintaining health in today's digital age. The speaker shares insights on strategies like using grounding devices, Faraday cages, or grounding sheets, especially for those living in high EMF environments like urban areas. Techniques such as using a Magnetico or creating a low EMF sleeping environment can help mitigate negative impacts. Awareness of EMF exposure and implementing protective measures are essential steps for overall wellness.
Matt Maruca, founder of Ra Optics and the Light Diet joins me to talk about the healing power of sunlight and the dangers of artificial light.
He shares practical tips that one can integrate when traveling across time zones. He talks about why he likes to eat his biggest meal in the middle of the day, the specific problem with LED lighting, why the smart phone slow motion feature is not accurate to prove flicker rate of healthy bulbs, what the color rendering index means, why we want our indoor lighting to be at eye level or lower at night, his thoughts on Starlink and X, ultraviolet light therapy, and more.
