Science is showing that blue light emitting from our electronic devices is playing a role in the health of our vision. There is evidence that blue light exposure is contributing to the development of age-related eye health issues, which is the leading cause of blindness in the U.S.

Harmful blue light passes through the retina: a very thin, multilayered tissue. According to Blue Light Exposed, “The retina can be harmed by high-energy visible radiation of blue/violet light that penetrates the macular pigment found in the eye.”

A Harvard Medical study states: “High Energy Visible blue light has been identified for years as the most dangerous light for the retina. After chronic exposure, one can expect to see long range growth in the number of [serious eye health issues].”

If you have pre-existing low macular pigment, nothing is protecting your vision from harmful blue light.

How Can We Protect Ourselves From Blue Light?

Other than taking frequent breaks from looking at your blue light emitting device or wearing specially made computer glasses, the best thing you can do is increase your macular pigment. The denser your macular pigment is, the more blue light is blocked from reaching your vision.

Macular pigment is built with two nutrients called zeaxanthin and lutein. These two nutrients are found in the eye, but wear away as time passes, and are not produced in the body. These nutrients are found in certain fruits and vegetables, but it’s nearly impossible to ingest the correct amount of these foods for it to protect your vision. That’s why the best way to increase your macular pigment is to supplement.