Are EMFs Harmful? 9 Science-Backed Tips to Protect Your Health
Jul 03, 2017I have been encountering the topic of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) much more frequently. At first, I started learning about how our consumer products (including appliances and cell phones) can contribute to our surrounding EMFs. As I read more about the potential health effects, I was reminded that our bodies are electrical beings.
Recently, the lovely Christina Lonsdale, an artist/photographer who founded Radiant Human, explained that her roving aura photography captures your electromagnetic field and assigns colors to the different wavelengths. Thus creating a photograph of your aura. The photograph above (of my husband and I) was taken shortly before the start of my Innovators of Wellness event. I share it as to help make EMFs more tangible since they are generally invisible to us.
In the article below, my editorial team explains how electromagnetic radiation can affect our health and wellbeing.
—SRG
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There are a number of different sources of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) such as mobile phones, microwave ovens and wireless routers, and our exposure to EMR is increasing as such devices have become daily essentials in our lives. A growing concern for many is the impact EMR can have on our health.
In this article, you will learn how your body is a sensitive electromagnetic system, the negative health effects of electromagnetic radiation and how to limit your exposure.
Sources of Electromagnetic Radiation
According to the Pew Research Center, in 2015, 92% of US adults owned cell phones, of which 79% were smartphones. Today, many of us cannot live without these devices because they help us communicate with the world.
Wi-fi routers can be found in every home and office providing internet connection for our computers. Even in our kitchens, household electrical appliances such as food processors and washing machines are also an electromagnetic radiation source that we are exposed to on a daily basis.
Living in such a world, have you wondered if your body is sensitive to the electromagnetic radiation these devices emit? What are the effects of electromagnetic radiation to your health and wellbeing?
Our Body is a Sensitive Electromagnetic System
We are basically electromagnetic beings. Our bodies contain our own human electrical currents which when exposed to man-made electrical currents create a chemical reaction. These currents "work to balance the activity of internal organs and in the case of injuries, represent the very foundation of the healing process", according to Dr. Bjorn Nordenstrom
Our body is sensitive to EMR because it's also an electromagnetic field (EMF). There are different types of EMR that our bodies are exposed to every day and these fall into two categories:
Low to mid frequency radiation - so called Non-Ionizing EMFs:
- Cell phones
- Computers
- Power lines
- WiFi
- Electrical appliances, e.g. microwave ovens
Mid to high frequency radiation - so called Ionizing EMFs:
- Ultraviolet light from the Sun
- X-Rays ranging from 30*1016 Hz to 30*1019 Hz
- Gamma rays.
It's almost impossible to escape from electromagnetic radiation, however, the good news is we can reduce their effects if we practice some very manageable habits (specific tips below!).
Can EMFs be Harmful to our Health?
Today, cell phone Wi-fi connection is on at almost all times and cell phones are carried in every person's pocket. Can this frequent exposure to electromagnetic fields cause cancer, nervous disorders, birth defects or any other health hazards?
Many studies have been carried out, and no direct links have been found between non-Ionizing EMFs and cancer in adults. However, under certain circumstances, ionizing EMFs can lead to cellular and DNA damage with prolonged exposure, according to the US National Institutes of Health.
We should, however, be aware of low-frequency radiation, even if it seems harmless. It can still affect your body's circadian rhythms, the production of melatonin hormone, increase the permeability of "blood-brain barrier" and make you more vulnerable to chemical toxic effects.
9 Tips to Mitigate the Effects of Electromagnetic Radiation
As mentioned before, the impact of low-frequency EMF sources is not fully understood, and frequent exposure from devices such as cell phones, computers, microwave ovens or power lines can interfere with our body's natural healing processes. For many this can lead to serious health issues.
These tips can help you significantly reduce your exposure electromagnetic radiation:
- Turn your mobile phone to airplane mode when possible or turn off Wi-fi connection when not in use.
- Unplug household appliances when not in use.
- Keep cell phones and computers at a distance when possible.
- Avoid carrying phones in pockets or bras.
- Avoid using computers on lap when connected to a power source.
- Eat healthy food.
- Add pomegranate seeds, rosemary, asparagus, blueberries, walnuts, prunes, cinnamon, dates, broccoli or cilantro to your meal on a regular basis.
- Adjust your daily habits to help you avoid high EMF exposures.
- The Ultimate 21-Day Digital Detox is recommended, especially for those who are frequently exposed to digital devices. Many EMF sensitive persons who have applied the teachings in this course into their lifestyle have experienced an immediate improvement in their sleep quality. Others have experienced better memory, less brain fog, and improved vitality.
