Last time, we discussed the negative health consequences of too much TV in Fayetteville AR. Since much of the problem seems to stem from sitting down, rather than what's on TV, maybe watching TV in some other position might be a solution. TV in bed, perhaps?Think again.

Negative effects from TV in Fayetteville AR

Having a TV in the bedroom is strongly associated with insomnia and disturbed sleep. A study from the University of Bergen also found that the use of electronic devices including TV in the bedroom was associated with poor sleep habits.

Part of the problem is related to the content of the TV shows. While millions of Americans doze off during late night TV chat shows, news, or movies, the content of these programs can actually be disturbing.

Even if you find a calming program, falling asleep with the TV on has effects on sleep that are related to the TV itself. The sound from a TV can lead to lighter sleep, which means less deep sleep over the course of the night.

The light may have health consequences on its own. Animal studies show a correlation between exposure to artificial light at night and the growth of tumors. A study comparing breast cancer patients with healthy women showed that the cancer patients were more likely to live near places with "blue light," a type of ambient light related to the light from TV. The medical journal Cancer Research reported that light suppresses the formation of the hormone melatonin, which is normally produced at night. Melatonin is a cancer fighter.

A sleep timer that leaves you sleeping with the TV on for an hour or two before shutting off is better than leaving the TV on all night, or getting up in the middle of the night to turn off the TV, but it still reduces the amount of deep, restful sleep you receive.

How about putting the TV in the den or family room and leaving a book on the nightstand instead?